The Georgia Department of Education, in partnership with Georgia Department of Public Health, released today, Georgia’s Path to Recovery for K-12 Schools. The attached guidance (not mandate) will help schools plan for a safe return to instruction for the 2020-2021 school year.

The document is comprehensive in providing guidance on multiple areas including practicing prevention, transporting students, entering school buildings, serving meals, transitioning between classes and spaces within the school, conducting large group gatherings, supporting teaching and learning, and protecting vulnerable populations in areas of substantial, minimal to moderate, and low to no community spread of COVID-19. GADOE is clear to indicate that local school districts have the authority and flexibility to meet their individual needs and be responsive to their communities.

Under the direction of Superintendent Tyson, DCSD’s Re-Opening School Task Force has been meeting to build a framework that will serve as a transition document to the new Superintendent for final decisions. The Board will receive the framework under the Superintendent’s Report on Monday, June 8, 2020.

Today, March 26, 2020, Governor Kemp issued an Executive Order closing ALL Georgia public schools until April 24, 2020. Therefore, DeKalb County Schools will be closed through April 24, 2020 and will await further direction from the Governor’s Office and the Georgia Department of Education.

We will continue utilizing our digital learning platforms and tools to serve our students instructionally. Our meal service to students will continue per published schedule. Our employees will continue to telework. Other essential functions necessary for district to operate will continue as well.

The Governor’s Executive Order is attached.

Please continue to visit our website for updates.