Gwinnett delays starting date for school

The largest school district in the state announced Tuesday it needs more time to get ready for back to school this fall. Gwinnett Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks addressed the Board of Education at a special called meeting laying out four points.

School will begin on Aug. 12 instead of Aug. 5 as previously scheduled. This will give the district additional time to review and adjust plans.

All school district employees, students and visitors will be required to wear masks or face coverings. This mandate along with social distancing is based on recommendations from medical professionals. Accommodations will be made for students or personnel who are unable to wear a masks for documented health reasons.

Pre-planning for time for teachers has been increased by five days.

During this time, all staff will be oriented on COVID-19 prevention protocols for the classroom and the school at large.

There will be additional professional leaning to support more effective digital learning.

Additionally, the district will extend training in social-emotional and culturally responsive instruction.

The the Class of 2020 in-person graduation ceremonies have been canceled. Even though about half the graduating seniors and their families had expressed interest in attending a later commencement, Wilbanks said he didn't feel it would be safe.

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