MUNCIE, Ind. — Some central Indiana schools are still preparing to reopen for classes.
In Muncie, they're set to welcome back students next Tuesday, and like several other districts, there will be significant changes for students and staff alike.
At Grissom Elementary, plexiglass barriers have been set up, they're also moving desks out of classrooms to accommodate distancing and installed contactless water refill stations.
While several districts have had reported cases of COVID-19, administrators say they are confident in their plan.
“Our district office has done a really nice job of doing some good research into best practices and how to keep our students and staff safe,” said principal Brittney Charles. “We have read a lot and talked to our local department of health and have taken time to develop practices and policy and protocol to keep our students and staff safe. I feel comfortable as an administrator opening on Tuesday.”
Grissom Elementary has about 450 students. So far, close to 20% have opted for e-learning.
Device pick-up for online students
School administrators say nearly 800 students have enrolled in Muncie's virtual learning program for the fall. Those students who do not have access to a computer, laptop or tablet can get one from the school district.
Students in kindergarten, first and second grade will get iPads, while students in third grade through high school will receive a Chromebook from the program. Students without reliable internet can also receive a wireless hotspot.
The devices can be picked up Wednesday-Friday of this week at the MCS Administration Building at 4301 S. Cowan Road. Distribution will take place from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. all three days and also from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.