While Cherokee County School Superintendent Brian Hightower is “cautiously optimistic” classroom teaching can resume Aug. 3, the district is making contingency plans for continued distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While we are cautiously optimistic in relation to our plans for an in-person return to school, we need to also have contingencies for a possible delayed start and the potential need for continued digital learning days,” Hightower told a recent school board meeting.

If schools open, there will be increased focus on health including frequent disinfecting of high-touch areas, temperature checks, smaller seating groups at lunch, and other measures. The cost of additional custodial services, cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment is estimated at $2.25 million.

Also, summer virtual training sessions are being prepared for teachers to increase their online teaching capabilities. Hightower said no decision about reopening the schools will be made until July 1 at the earliest. Information: https://bit.ly/bdbriefs0520