HAMPTON, Va. — Superintendent of Hampton City Schools, Dr. Jeffery Smith, said the division should expect to start the new academic year in what's called "phase 2."
That means everyone will try to distance at least three feet, as much as possible.
Masks will also be required for teachers and students inside schools.
Medical exemptions are allowed. Wearing a face shield and distancing are proposed as alternatives.
“There is some flexibility in the classroom, but what is not flexible is bus riding because it’s a federal law that they’re required to wear a mask,” said Glory Gill, RN, BSN, director of health services.
Hampton parents are preparing to send their children back to school and mask wearing is part of their plans.
“We’re having the conversations with the kids about how to protect themselves and make sure to keep their masks on and keep their distance," said parent Tammy Ishmael. “I think that it’s best that the kids still wear their masks, even if they are vaccinated.”
Tammy and Glennon Ishmael are keeping up with the latest Hampton City Schools updates before sending their children back to the classroom.
According to a release from Hampton City Schools, the decision on universal mask wearing in the fall is based on guidance from the CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics and the Virginia Department of Health.
“I believe that what we have is 100 percent solid, but there’s always room for improvement and I’m glad we will be revisiting that,” said Jason Samuels, a school board member.
The school division said it will reevaluate no later than the end of the first quarter.
“The division planning team is coming before the board with several phases of school operation to begin the school year,” said Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. John Caggiano.
“Phase 1,” for example, would make masks optional for vaccinated people in secondary schools. “Phase 3” would revert to all-virtual learning.
But right now, Hampton school leaders said schools will open five days a week for families who prefer in-person learning.
The Ishmaels say they are ready for their children to go back to school and stay healthy.
“Either you’re vaccinated, definitely wearing your mask, getting them back out there back into that social skills set they're accustomed to so they can get back out there and be amongst their friends," said Glennon.
Chief Operations Officer Dr. Daniel Bowling assured the division will operate as safely as possible with plenty of protective supplies like desk shields, cloth masks and sanitizing products.
“Our schools are well stocked,” he said.