by Emma Creason, Staff Writer
The EASD school board convened for a meeting open to the public on Zoom on November 10th. While the meeting covered a variety of topics, we at the Etown Expression are bringing you the most important points of the meeting for students and community members.
Point #1: COVID-19 Plans
The district remains alert as we advance into flu season with this global pandemic. As it stands, the EASD administration and staff participates regularly in forums and conferences with state and federal health officials and makes decisions based on expert advice and information.
Point #2: Community Voices
At the meeting on November 10th, only one community member spoke to the board. A. Zahn spoke for over 200 local parents as he proposed the transition of 3rd grade to Bear Creek Intermediate School and the transition of 6th grade to Elizabethtown Middle School be postponed. He spoke of concern for the mental health both students and staff during a transition, stating that the changes are "unnecessary" and could cause undue stress during these already challenging times.
Point #3: Physical vs. Distanced Instruction
The board passed the continuation of current educational setups with grades K-6 in person, 7-12 on a rotating hybrid schedule, and EASD online options for all ages. The board reviewed information from public health officials that if grades 7-12 were to return to an all in person format, there would be an inability to properly distance students in the school buildings.
Among other topics discussed by the board were finances and additions of clubs to the high school. Tune in to the next school board meeting by checking the district website: www.etownschools.org
The EASD school board convened for a meeting open to the public on Zoom on November 10th. While the meeting covered a variety of topics, we at the Etown Expression are bringing you the most important points of the meeting for students and community members.
Point #1: COVID-19 Plans
The district remains alert as we advance into flu season with this global pandemic. As it stands, the EASD administration and staff participates regularly in forums and conferences with state and federal health officials and makes decisions based on expert advice and information.
Point #2: Community Voices
At the meeting on November 10th, only one community member spoke to the board. A. Zahn spoke for over 200 local parents as he proposed the transition of 3rd grade to Bear Creek Intermediate School and the transition of 6th grade to Elizabethtown Middle School be postponed. He spoke of concern for the mental health both students and staff during a transition, stating that the changes are "unnecessary" and could cause undue stress during these already challenging times.
Point #3: Physical vs. Distanced Instruction
The board passed the continuation of current educational setups with grades K-6 in person, 7-12 on a rotating hybrid schedule, and EASD online options for all ages. The board reviewed information from public health officials that if grades 7-12 were to return to an all in person format, there would be an inability to properly distance students in the school buildings.
Among other topics discussed by the board were finances and additions of clubs to the high school. Tune in to the next school board meeting by checking the district website: www.etownschools.org
