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Metro Atlanta

Cherokee County schools to extend ‘grace’ to struggling students

Hickory Flat Elementary School teachers send greetings to students stuck at home. The Cherokee County schools have announced a policy of “grace” toward students struggling with the COVID-19 shutdown. CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Hickory Flat Elementary School teachers send greetings to students stuck at home. The Cherokee County schools have announced a policy of “grace” toward students struggling with the COVID-19 shutdown. CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
By David Ibata
April 9, 2020

The Cherokee County school superintendent announced a policy of “grace” for students struggling in the shutdown of the schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We will not retain a student from advancement to the next grade or from graduation when we can determine the student was attempting, but unable to overcome, hardships created by the school closure,” Superintendent Brian V. Hightower said. “We will extend grace.”

Hightower's message to parents, posted to the school district website, said that when considering final grades, teachers will take into account how students were performing prior to the school closures. A student at risk of failing will be given help and allowed to resubmit work. Failing that, the teacher will reach out to parents.

Hightower said that after spring break, he will ask the school board to approve plans for alternative graduation ceremonies and whether the school year should end earlier than May 28. An online survey will go out Thursday and be due Sunday to get input from residents. Information: https://bit.ly/2JMLMzY

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