NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Our area is continuing to rebound from the pandemic and some schools, including Williamson County, will see big changes in their COVID-19 policies, starting as early as next week.
Williamson County Schools announced the update in an email to parents on Thursday, saying, "based on updated guidance from the CDC, local health authorities and WCS data, some safety protocol changes are being made at elementary and secondary schools in WCS with most elementary schools implementing these beginning April 5, 2021."
From prom to recess, there are some big changes compared to last year, which impacts students, but for staff, nothing will be changing on their end.
Let's start with elementary schools:
- Kids out at recess now have the option to take off their mask. The district is citing multiple studies on how the virus is transmitted from person to person and the impact of sun heat humidity, being outside, plus CDC guidelines on outdoor recess.
- Kids will now get to go to special area classrooms but will wear masks and wash their hands.
- When it comes to promotion ceremonies for elementary and middle schools, individual school admins will create their own plans based on capacity.
Moving to the older kids, lets talk prom:
- Students will have to wear masks except when they are eating or getting pictures taken. However, the district says that social distancing can’t be guaranteed and details about proms will come from the schools.
- As for graduation ceremonies, they will be outside, weather permitting. Masks will not be mandatory – those in the graduation will be at least six feet apart, and when they are closer, it won’t be for longer than 15 minutes. Guests also don’t have to wear masks. Families and those who get together often do not have to maintain the 6 feet of distancing.
High school athletics will continue to follow TSSAA guidelines for athletic events. Additionally, adjustments to lunch procedures will be reviewed after TCAP testing.
The district said schools will communicate any specific or additional details to families before April 5.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
