It’s back to school time for students on Block Island after several weeks of distance learning for most. Superintendent Mike Convery announced at the School Committee’s meeting on Dec. 21 that a limited in-person group would resume classes on January 4, with grades Kindergarten through seven starting back in person on Jan. 7, and grades eight through 12 on Jan. 14.
The return to school will be bolstered by the availability of Covid testing for all students, staff, and teachers on a weekly basis. The test will be of the rapid response variety, with those taking it performing “self -swabbing” and results will be available in 15 minutes. There are plans for putting together an instructional video for younger students on how to self-administer the test.
“The Governor wants as many students back in school by Jan. 15,” as possible said Convery, adding that for high school students especially, the Jan. 14 date allows for two weeks after the holidays. The plan has been reviewed by the Medical Center, and Convery said: “Dr. Warcup said this plan sounds reasonable.”
There will also be a return to winter sports, specifically basketball. Convery said the season will be much shorter,
