When we announced our Back to School Plan on July 23, we made a commitment to work toward a full five-day in-person return for all students as soon as it was safe to do so. At this time, we have decided to move to full in-person teaching and learning for Pre-K through Second Grade, effective November 10, for all A day and B day hybrid model students. Additionally, we have set a target of November 30 for Third through Fifth Grades and secondary students at the start of second semester.

We have made this decision based on a thorough evaluation of the number of COVID-19 cases in our schools, feedback from parents and employees, and examination of disease activity in York County. Further, we recognize our youngest learners are the most vulnerable and need to be in school five days a week at this time. With this transition, Pre-K through Second Grade students will attend school in person, five days per week beginning November 10. 

The health, safety, and well-being of our school community remains our top priority. We will continue to follow sound protocols aligned with expert health guidance to ensure we are doing everything to protect the health of our students and staff. 

To that end, staff and students will be required to wear face coverings or masks and engage in social distancing to the greatest extent possible. We will also encourage frequent hand-washing and thoroughly clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces and common areas on a regular basis. By combining the A and B student schedules, we understand there will be a need to modify classroom arrangements and allow teachers to plan. As a result, Monday, November 9 will be an e-learning day for all elementary students to allow staff time to prepare for the return of Pre-K through Second Grade students on Tuesday, November 10. 

This change to in-person learning only applies to our Pre-K through Second Grade elementary students currently enrolled in the A/B in-person, hybrid model. At this time, our students in the Rock Hill Schools Virtual Academy will continue in the remote-only learning option. Virtual Academy students at the elementary and middle levels have made the commitment to participate for the school year, while high school students will have the option of returning to in-person learning at the semester break.

As we begin this transition, I remind you to be vigilant in protecting yourself and those around you by practicing all safety protocols. If you develop any COVID-19 symptoms, please stay home, consult a healthcare provider, and notify the school office. Further, we encourage you to try to limit in-person interactions with other individuals as much as possible away from campus to minimize the risk of contracting and spreading the disease among our faculty and staff.

We look forward to returning to full in-person teaching soon. Your principal or supervisor will follow up with more details on making the transition. Once again, thank you for all you are doing for our students. 

For further updates on our reopening plan, visit www.rock-hill.k12.sc.us/rh5day.