By: Benjamin Rickert
BCS Communications Dept.
Principal Stephen Chandler felt like he was at a child’s birthday party as he visited each classroom at Weaverville Primary this week. The school’s kindergarten and first grade students returned for in-person instruction under
Plan A on March 8, along with K-3 students across Buncombe County.
“There has been a positive energy to the whole school,” he said. “All the kids are just so excited that they are at school and face to face for the first time.”
Chandler’s teachers and staff have prepared for this week for a long time. Rooms were rearranged to allow greater physical distancing. Classroom supplies were prepared for each student. Safety protocols were considered for each part of the school day. The preparations helped everyone safely enjoy the milestone week together.
“Our students always rise to meet our expectations,” Chandler said. “I see them working very hard to wear their masks. They practice walking with arms extended to help them social distance. It’s great when all of your planning comes together and works how it should.”
With some families continuing to choose remote learning this semester, a planned ‘One School, One Book’ reading activity will provide one more way to keep everyone connected. All students received their own copy of “The Good Egg” to read aloud together with their teachers and classmates. While written for children, the book’s themes of self-care, balance, and considering others' needs hold value for people of all ages.
“Our first days of Plan A have been a big success and a team effort,” Chandler added.
As decided by the Buncombe County Board of Education on February 25, 2021, students in grades K-3 returned to schools under Plan A on March 8, and grades 4-5 will return on March 15. View the StrongSchoolsNC Public Health Toolkit (PDF, 1.5MB, Updated March 4, 2021).