Update Regarding Opening of School

July 1, 2020

St. Bernard Parish Public School System is continuing to finalize plans for the beginning of the upcoming school year.

Guidelines regarding the opening of schools this upcoming fall were recently released by the Louisiana Department of Health in coordination with the Louisiana Department of Education, Governor John Bel Edwards, and the Center for Disease Control (C.D.C).

Instructional Delivery Model

The School District has been preparing for three instructional delivery models:

• Traditional Learning: Schools open daily to students while following recommended safety guidelines for class sizes, social distancing, and movement
• Hybrid Learning: Combination of traditional and distance learning
• Distance Learning: Teacher led remote instruction and learning

According to the current guidelines provided, St. Bernard Parish Public School System is prepared to begin the school year as safely as possible. Based upon the protective measures outlined by state and national officials, St. Bernard Parish School System is preparing for school operations to vary by level and to be determined by the phase in which the state of Louisiana is currently operating.

As communicated above, all preschool through eighth grade students and all students at Rowley Alternative School should plan on returning to their school buildings come August if the state remains in either Phase II or Phase III. Students at Chalmette High School will receive further guidance in the coming weeks regarding their hybrid schedule.

Please note, these plans may be subject to change if guidelines or criteria are adjusted by state or national authorities.

St. Bernard Parish Public School District is anticipating to offer a total virtual option for families who would prefer their students not return to the physical building. An informational session will be held virtually for families interested in this option. A parent or guardian will be required to register for the session in advance and information can be found at www.sbpsb.org/virtualoption.

Transportation

One of the greatest challenges the School District is facing is student transportation. In accordance with the guidelines, school bus capacity is limited based upon the phase in which the state is operating. The St. Bernard Parish Public School System is urging families to consider transporting students to and from school in personal or family vehicles.

What to Expect Next

Further guidance and details will be provided to families in the coming weeks. Parents and guardians will receive more information with their school’s summer mail-out. Parents or guardians should ensure that their address is correct by contacting their student’s school as soon as possible. Frequent updates will also be shared on the district and schools’ websites and social media accounts.