As the start of school quickly approaches, Carlynton School District continues to refine its plans for reopening.

At the most recent school board meeting, the board amended the proposed safety plan based on new information and guidelines put forth by the CDC. This will likely be a common occurrence, according to recording secretary to the board, Michale Herrmann.

“The Health and Safety Plan for the 2021-2022 school year will be reviewed on a regular basis,” Herrmann said.

Currently, CSD plans to welcome back students for five days per week, in-person learning.

Because none of the FDA-approved covid-19 vaccines are approved for children under age 12, CSD has decided to require all elementary students to continue wearing masks. However, secondary students — regardless of vaccination status — will not be required to wear masks, although it is still recommended for unvaccinated students.

As for staff members, masks are recommended, but not required, in most circumstances. Food service employees are required to wear masks at all times, and health personnel, such as school nurses, will also be required to wear masks indoors.

When visiting a school’s health office, students of all ages will be required to wear masks.

All students and staff will also be required to wear masks while on buses, in accordance with the federal mask mandate that is still exclusively in effect on public transportation.

Differing from last year, students will not be subject to temperature tests upon entry to school.

Superintendent John Kreider says he will continue to follow all local and CDC guidelines and will adjust the health and safety plan accordingly as the situation evolves.

In addition to in-person schooling, CSD will continue to offer virtual learning options.

“For parents who are still wary about sending their child to school, we are recommending they consider the Carlynton Cyber Academy,” Herrmann said.

This program, according to Herrmann, offers a CSD curriculum but allows for students to take these courses at home.

As students make the transition back to in-person learning, CSD is increasing its investment in personal and classroom technology. According to Herrmann, CSD will provide every student in third through 12th grade with a Chromebook. Younger students will house the Chromebooks at school while older students will be able to bring these home to help complete assignments. CSD is also in the process of installing 40 new Promethean boards — a type of smart whiteboard — in classrooms across the district.

CSD students are scheduled to begin school on Aug. 30.

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