Shelby County Schools plans for January return starting with youngest students and students with disabilities

Superintendent Joris Ray wants all students in Shelby County Schools to return to school buildings in January in two phases, but left open the possibility to delay the start dates.

First, students in prekindergarten through fifth grade and students with disabilities would have the option for in-person learning every day starting Jan. 4. Middle and high school students would return about two weeks later on Jan. 19.

In-person instruction would be optional for both students and teachers, similar to when the district announced its initial re-entry plan in June. Parents can change their choice starting Oct. 21 until Oct. 30. Students whose parents do not make a choice will default to in-person learning. Optional COVID-19 nasal swab testing would be available for students and staff, Ray said.

https://tn.chalkbeat.org/2020/10/19/21524129/scs-plans-january-return-for-elementary-and-students-with-disabilities