NEW: Sullivan County Schools announces all classes will be online beginning Aug. 5

Sullivan County Schools will have online-only classes beginning Aug 5th because of the number of virus cases over the past 14 days that has placed the system in the red level for decision-making procedures.

Director of Schools David Cox encouraged parents and students to employ safe practices to drive COVID cases back down so that children can return to the classroom.

Cox also said that schools will be in touch to arrange for the pick up of devices and materials prior to opening day online.

Here is the statement issued by Cox on Friday:

“Sullivan County Schools announces today the 2020-2021 school year will open with online instruction beginning on Wednesday, August 5th through Friday, August 14th, in accordance with the Sullivan County Department of Education Operating Procedures, which can be found on our website at www.sullivank12.net. We wanted to make this announcement that extends through the first full week of school so that our families and our staff can plan accordingly.

“This decision is in response to the number of COVID 19 cases per 100,000 residents over the past 14-day period, which places us in the “red” zone. The Operating Procedures green, yellow, and red thresholds are designed to provide guidance for decision making; however, other mitigating factors are also considered, including cluster information within contained facilities.
Students who are enrolled in the Sullivan County Virtual Learning Academy will also begin on August 5th.

“We will continue to meet on Thursday of each week with the Sullivan County Health Department and provide any updates for the following week by 10:00 AM the following day on Friday.
Schools will be in touch with parents to arrange for the pick up of devices and materials prior to August 5th. We will also have individual school schedules for device/materials pick up posted on our website.

“On Friday afternoon, Director of Schools, Dr. David Cox commented, “These are extraordinary and unprecedented times. Our priorities are for the safety and well being of our students and staff, while meeting the learning needs of all of our students. We want to get our students back into our schools as soon as we can safely do so, and ask that everyone please wear face coverings and practice frequent hand washing and social distancing to get our numbers back down. We also ask for the continued support, patience and prayers of our community during these difficult times.

“For additional information, and to view a video message from Dr. Cox, visit our website www.sullivank12.net.”