Public School System In Maryland Making The Switch To Online Learning Due To Rise In COVID-19 Cases
If you thought we were done with making rash decisions based on COVID-19, then think again.
According to WTOP News, Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland will make the switch back to online learning. The new edict will be in effect from Dec. 20-Jan. 14, 2022. Students in the K-6 Virtual Learning Program will return on Jan. 31. As expected, an uptick in COVID-19 cases is the primary reason for the change.
Dr. Monica Goldson, chief executive officer for Prince George's Public Schools, said the decision was made with the health and safety of everyone in mind.
“Over the past few days, I have remained in daily contact with the Prince George’s County Health Department regarding appropriate steps for maintaining safe environments across more than 200 school communities,” Goldson said in a statement. "Educators, administrators and support staff must be able to deliver in-person instruction and other activities in conditions that prioritize their own health, as well as the wellbeing of the school community.
"The increased positivity rates have significantly challenged the ability to do so, causing anxiety among many school communities and disruption to the school day.”
Goldson announced on Wednesday a high of 155 cases reported in a single day. Less than 100 cases were reported over a two-day period last week. Per a report from the Mayo Clinic, most children with COVID-19 have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Nearby public schools' systems in Prince William and Fairfax counties in Virginia and Charles County in Maryland and Washington, D.C., have no plans to switch to online learning. Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland will stay in-person unless directed to switch by local or state officials.
WTOP News also reports The University of Maryland at College Park is canceling all winter commencement activities, including graduation.
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