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Archdiocese Releases Plan For Catholic Schools’ Reopening

July 24th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Archdiocese of Baltimore will allow students at Catholic schools the option of whether to return to school buildings or not. On Friday, the archdiocese released a plan to ensure safety for those who do take part in physical learning. WBAL reports that under the plan, most schools will be able to safely accommodate all students for five-day, in-person instruction. However, some schools with not enough space or staff may have to begin the year with a blended or hybrid model.

“Our number one priority is the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff,” James B. Sellinger, the archdiocesan chancellor of education, said in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming our students back to the classroom, whether they be in person or participating virtually.”

The public school systems in Maryland that have announced fall plans to date have indicated students will begin the year learning from home.

“Catholic schools have the ability to safely return to in-person instruction due to their facility and enrollment size,” said Donna Hargens, superintendent of schools for the archdiocese.  “A significant investment in technology, infrastructure, and professional development, as well as the adoption of a variety of risk mitigation methods, are key factors in our school system’s ability to offer all three modes of operation (in-person, hybrid, and remote).”

Under the plan, faculty, staff and preschool and kindergarten students will have their temperature checked on arrival. Older students will need their temperature taken by a parent prior to their arrival. Anyone whose temperature is over 100 degrees will have to stay home.

At schools, everyone will have to wear a face mask indoors and when social distancing is not possible outdoors. Hand sanitizer stations will be plentiful. High-touch surfaces will be cleaned throughout the day. Communal dining areas will be closed and students will be asked to wash their hands before and after meals.

Students and staff who are either showing symptoms or may have been exposed to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus will be tested in accordance with state and local guidelines.

3 Responses to “Archdiocese Releases Plan For Catholic Schools’ Reopening”

  1. July 24, 2020 at 10:03 pm, Martin D Fornwalt said:

    I JUST SAW, WHERE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IS SELLING OFF CLOSED CHURCHES TO MUSLIM’S TO CREATE MOSQUES! THE SPREAD OF THE MUSLIM FAITH THAT HATERS AMERICA! CHRISTIAN WORLDWIDE! THIS IS PLAN STUPIDITY!

    Reply

    • July 25, 2020 at 12:11 pm, Jay said:

      1. The vast majority of Muslims do not hate America.

      2. Freedom of religion is in the Constitution.

      3. The number of mosques in the United States in 2011 was 2,106. The six states with the greatest number of mosques were: New York 257, California 246, Texas 166, Florida 118, Illinois 109, New Jersey 109.

      4. The Catholic Church, or any other church, can sell their unused buildings to whomever they choose. It’s called free market Capitalism.

      5. Supporting local churches so the building is not sold would not be the primary reason to attend and support.

      6. Martin, you need an editor.

      Reply

  2. July 25, 2020 at 4:34 am, Ron said:

    All the more reason to support your local churches so they aren’t put into the position of having to sell.

    Reply

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