CMCSS will extend remote learning for all CMCSS traditional students through Fri., Jan. 22. The goal is to bring all traditional students back for in-person learning on Mon., Jan. 25. However, the district has a contingency plan for a prioritized return for pre-k through sixth-grade traditional students it will be prepared to share later if the conditions do not improve for a full return.
On average, there have been around 300 more students per grade level impacted by COVID-19 cases in the district’s upper grades than lower grades. CMCSS would prioritize an in-person return for younger students due to the greater difficulty distance learning poses for our youngest students, the lower transmission rates among this age group, and the greater childcare burden placed on families with younger children.
While many school systems across the state and nation had limited to no in-person learning over the fall semester, CMCSS faculty, staff, and administrators worked diligently to make traditional learning possible for the parents who chose that option for their children. Over the past week, Clarksville-Montgomery County’s community spread has remained above .8%, and this rate is projected to increase over the next few weeks due to holiday gatherings and travel. In the months before Winter Break, schools across the district struggled with staffing issues due to COVID-19 related leave and the substitute shortage. District leaders remain hopeful that this extended remote period will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and improve staffing issues so there are less disruptions to learning and schedules. The CMCSS Communicable Disease Team will continue reviewing data and updating families if there are any necessary changes.
At this time, all employees who are not on leave will be expected to report to their work location at their regularly scheduled time. The only exceptions will be some employee groups who will have alternative assignments communicated to them by their supervisors. This is subject to change based on the conditions of the pandemic.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a substitute teacher to help address the district’s staffing concerns, please visit cmcss.net/employment for more information.
CMCSS will continue offering USDA approved no-cost meals through the end of the academic year in May 2021. Weekday meals are available Mondays from 1-2 p.m., and weekend meals are available Fridays from 1-2 p.m. at all CMCSS elementary schools.
Finally, please follow the guidance of our local, state, and national public health officials and medical experts to keep your family, friends, and neighbors healthy by reducing the spread of COVID-19.
