Coronavirus Update and School Closure

To All ECSS Family, Friends, and Community:

As you may already know, Governor Kemp has issued an executive order that mandates the closure of all public schools through April 24. That means we would return to school on April 27 at the earliest. Because of the continued state of the unknown effects of the Coronavirus, that date, although currently issued, could surely change.

As Superintendent, the hardest part of this is having to say I don’t know. I usually know the answer or can figure it out with the help of the strong leadership that exists in our school system. Unfortunately, there are many issues we still do not know--and will not know--for some time. What I can tell you is that we want everyone safe and well. We want to provide quality work so students can stay academically engaged while they are at home. What that looks like and what that means as far as grades, promotion, retention, and graduation--we are still working through. It will take us time and patience and faith and support. Principals are working closely with their teachers, and teachers are providing Google Classroom assignments and workbooks or hard copies when they can. At this point, we believe it prudent for teachers to no longer try to deliver work, but students will not be penalized if they cannot access the work. Again, we are working on a plan to make a fair determination about the work that students need to have completed to move on to the next grade or to graduate.

As we continue to monitor and navigate these very turbulent waters, know how very proud I am to be a Bobcat. As is Early County’s tradition, we are stepping up to help out and to provide support for each other during this difficult time. As we are learning about more positive Coronavirus tests and that members of our staff, student body, and community have been tested and are awaiting results, we continue to band together and stand ready to help in any way possible.

Staff are asked to stay out of the buildings and stay home for their protection and the protection of their families and the community. I encourage you to please continue to limit your social activities, practice social distancing, wash your hands, and protect the elderly as well as people with chronic health conditions in the days and weeks ahead. If I may be of service, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin