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Nov. 3 Message to Families

Save Our School Year Nov. 3 Message to Families

BCSS Families,

As I’m sure you’ve seen reported in the news recently, our country is experiencing another increase in COVID-19 cases. For the safety of our students, staff, and families, we continue to monitor the situation closely. Barrow has remained in the yellow or moderate spread level since September 8. Thank you for your persistence in taking the necessary steps to help keep our schools healthy!

As we head into the holiday season, we need your help to ensure that our schools can remain open for our students. As you make your holiday plans and gather with family, please continue to follow guidelines to help mitigate the spread of the virus:

  • Wash your hands. At least 20 seconds with soap and water.
  • Cover your face. Wear a face covering or mask over your nose and mouth.
  • Maintain your space. Keep 6 feet apart as much as possible.

Barrow County School System leaders have utilized an intentional, data-driven approach during the COVID-19 pandemic to influence decisions made regarding learning. In addition, we believe that transparency inspires trust in this time of uncertainty.

Every day, BCSS monitors data to determine the virus spread level specifically for Barrow County. We track the number of cases from the Department of Public Health’s website to determine the spread level in Barrow. COVID-19 virus spread levels are based on the 14-day average of new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 citizens.

BCSS utilizes a three-tiered model with the following color categories:

  • Green (low spread): Less than 10 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 citizens (14-day average)
  • Yellow (moderate spread): Between 10 and 24.9 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 citizens (14-day average)
  • Red (significant spread): Greater than or equal to 25 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 citizens (14-day average)

We do not anticipate needing to close schools unless we see the Barrow virus spread level move into red or significant spread levels for a sustained period of time. Our schools are continuing to follow the guidelines we established in July, but we are relying on individuals to continue to make smart and healthy choices.

Like you, we are tired of the restrictions caused by the pandemic. We miss seeing our students’ smiles. We miss gathering as a community. We miss having families in our schools. However, we must persist so that learning can prevail for our students. Thank you for your continued support.

Thank you,
Dr. Chris McMichael
Superintendent

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