Northeastern schools to use hybrid learning through next week due to Clark County coronavirus alert level

Credit: Bill Lackey

Credit: Bill Lackey

All schools in the Northeastern Local School District will continue hybrid learning through the end of next week due to Clark County being at level 3, or red, on the Ohio Public Health Advisory System and being put on the watchlist as a county approaching level 4.

“Because we are a Red or Level Three county, all NELSD schools, including Kenton Ridge and Northridge, will continue on the hybrid schedule for the week of Monday, Oct. 26, through Friday, Oct. 30,” said Superintendent John Kronour.

A decision on how to continue after Oct. 30 will be made on Oct. 29.

Kronour said Group A, last names A-K, will attend school in-person on Monday and Tuesday and learn from home Wednesday through Friday. Group B, last names L-Z, will attend school in-person on Thursday and Friday and learn from home Monday through Wednesday.

"We know that the news that we are now on the watchlist is concerning for our families, staff, and community. We share your concerns - the health and safety of our students, staff, families, and community are our top concern always, but especially during the pandemic. Please know that we are collaborating closely with the Clark County Combined Health District and following their guidance,” Kronour said.

Both Kenton Ridge High School and Northridge Middle and Elementary School used remote learning through Friday due to an outbreak in the district. Kenton Ridge students were moved to remote learning on Oct. 7 and Northridge students on Oct. 12.

According to Northeastern’s COVID-19 dashboard, as of Friday, the district reported 27 total positive cases, nine probable cases and 340 total current quarantined cases.

Kenton Ridge had 19 confirmed cases, six probable cases and 237 current quarantined cases. Northridge had six confirmed cases, three probable cases and 81 current quarantined cases. It’s unclear which of those cases are students and which are staff members.

“To continue to keep our schools and community healthy and safe, we know we need to continue to be vigilant about wearing masks, social distancing, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when we are sick,” Kronour said. “We will continue reminding students about these important and easy steps while at school; we ask that you join us by reminding them at home and setting a good example.”

Kronour is reminding families that a mask must be worn and social distancing must be practiced any time you are on school grounds, including to pick up and drop off.

He is also reminding families to plan for the possibility of periods of virtual learning as things change.

“Our staff has worked hard to get ready to continue educating students virtually if the need arises. While we hope that together we are able to improve COVID conditions in Clark County, we know it is important that we are all prepared and ready for what comes our way,” he said.

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