DeKalb County School District Reveals Phased-In Reopening Plan

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — DeKalb County School District officials unveiled the district's plan for a staggered return to in-person instruction Tuesday.

Families will still be able to choose between virtual or face-to-face learning, in which a phased return to the classroom will take place. In Phase One, staff returns to the classroom and teaches virtually from there.

Students in pre-K through second grade as well as sixth and ninth grade who choose in-person learning can return starting March 9. Students in third grade through fifth grades, seventh and eighth grades, and 10th through 12th grades can return to the classroom starting March 15.

In Phases Two and Three, cohorts of students will participate in hybrid, in-person learning based on their attendance choice.

“I am excited about the return to face-to-face instruction,” Superintendent Cheryl Watson-Harris said. “This has been a tough, but necessary decision. We will continue to make the safety of our scholars and staff our number one priority and soar together.”

DeKalb Board of Education Chair Vickie Turner said the district will follow "every evidence-based recommendation" for the safety of students and staff.

“I am grateful for the very diligent and thoughtful work that has been demonstrated by this staff along with the leadership team," Turner said. "It goes without question, virtual learning has presented some serious challenges to our students, our families and our staff. The superintendent is to be commended for facing those challenges head on and coming up with viable solutions that will ultimately benefit our students."