Salin Low introduced Kevin Case who has been the Superintendent in Canton for 14 years. He is originally from Winsted and has been in teaching for 35 years. Kevin misses not being at our meetings on a regular basis.
The School Reopening Taskforce was formed in June from Board of Education members, administrators, teachers and other school staff. They began the planning process in mid-June and have been meeting weekly ever since. The team is divided into several focus groups covering Systems and Operations, Student and Staff Health/Wellness, and Teaching and Learning. Kevin said that the key has been adapting to the ever changing environment and state guidelines issued as recently as June 29th. The plan centers on four main topics: Cohorting, Transportation, Physical Distancing and Face Coverings. Kevin pointed out that the details are available on the school district's website: Canton School Reopening Plan Overview.
The Taskforce had to prepare three possible plans--return all students to face-to-face instruction, a blended model, and a full remote model. In late July, the Governor clarified his guidance added that hybrid model would be allowed. The latter is the current plan for all students to return starting on August 31st in a hybrid model. Families can choose whether to return their students to school or keep them at home doing remote learning. The expectations would be the same for all students concerning school work and attendance. Remote students will be assigned a remote teacher. Approximately 100 students have opted out--50 at Pre-K to 6th grade and 50 at middle and high school. To support this option the district has had to hire new teachers with no additional budget support. The district will not likely receive additional state funding. Students will participate in Synchronous and Asychronous Learning.
Students at Pre-K to 6th grade will be divided into two cohorts. Cohort A will meet at school on Monday and Tuesday and then meet remotely on Wednesday to Friday. Cohort B will meet remotely Monday through Wednesday and in school on Thursday and Friday. The schools will receive intense cleaning on Wednesday while the buildings are vacant.
The middle and high school students will also be divided in two cohorts to the extent that course offering and other scheduling allows.
Health and safety precautions will be paramount and taught to students in elementary during the first week of school. Kevin said they are relying on parents to focus on their student's health and attendance.
Phil Ferrari asked about special classes like speech and language services, music and physical education. Kevin said that they have plans for these activities including being outdoors as much as possible, special coverings for instruments, and other activities. The conflict between the CIAC and DPH has been issue. Kevin said that having the students in cohorts and then participating in after school sports doesn't make sense. Kevin also said that the CT Education Association is calling for a later school opening.
Kevin explained that the current plan has K-6 students transitioning to full time on September 29th and grades 7-12 in October.
Gary Miller asked about the need for additional support staff, i.e., custodial and food service, to maintain the buildings. Kevin expects overtime and some additional staff. The district has spent over $200,000 for PPE and other equipment over the approved budget. Chris Lamadrid about the challenge of maintaining morale. Kevin stated that the district has been working on Emotional Intelligence training. He has met with 45 teachers addressing their concerns. Mental health and wellness are part of the teachers professional development training.
Rollie Sterrett asked about the Warrior nickname. Kevin said that a committee has been formed to discuss removing the nickname and logo. A committee in 2006 decided to retain the name and emphasizing it's historic significance. A recommendation to the Board of Education is due in October.