The Clarke County School District will start the 2020-21 school year with all students participating in virtual instruction. The first day of school is Tuesday, September 8, 2020.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news we will begin the school year in a 100% online environment. This difficult decision was based on our recognition of the effects of COVID-19 and the commitment to the safety and wellness of students and staff,” states Dr. Xernona Thomas, Interim Superintendent.

The district previously announced the goal to provide options for hybrid (in-person and online instruction) and all virtual instruction.

“Regular day-to-day operations for in-person learning are complex and challenging. This pandemic is unprecedented and drastically changes the requirements for how to transport, feed, and educate students safely,” added Dr. Thomas. “We recognize the best place for students to learn is in class, and the district is working to resume in-person instruction as soon as possible.”

The decision was guided by current COVID-19 data for the state and region, combined with ever- changing recommendations from the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

“Teachers return to work on July 27, 2020 (virtually) and will focus on virtual learning preparation, including core content (ELA, mathematics, etc.), supplemental content for remediation and acceleration, and social-emotional lessons,” according to Brannon Gaskins, Chief Academic Officer.

Additional Reminders:

•   New student registration is open and completed online. All students must be registered to receive technology devices and participate in virtual instruction.

•   Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact their student’s school to update any changes to household information, including a student’s address and parent/guardian phone numbers and email addresses. Click here to view the list of schools and contact information.