BCS Teachers Back in Classrooms

A collage showing Ms. Morgan, Ms. Trull, Enka High Principal Jeff Burleson, and BCS Superintendent Dr. Tony Baldwin.

Pictured are Ms. Morgan (top left), Ms. Trull (bottom right), Enka High Principal Jeff Burleson (top right, left), and BCS Superintendent Dr. Tony Baldwin (top right, right).

By Tim Reaves
BCS Communications Department

With the first day of school approaching, teachers across the district are preparing their classrooms for in-person and remote instruction.

On Monday, Enka High School English language arts (ELA) teacher Megan Morgan sat large stuffed animals in seats throughout the room so her freshman English I students will have “buddies” in class while staying physically distant from other students. Among other preparations, she positioned hand sanitizer in strategic locations and worked on a welcome video for her remote-only students.

“I want this place to be home for the kids who are coming in here,” she said. “I want it to be an atmosphere where they feel welcome. And for those who are joining us remotely, I’m making sure that I can engage with them and make sure they know that they’re loved.”

A few doors down, fellow ELA teacher Amy Trull rearranged her desks to allow for physical distancing, worked on lesson plans, and completed professional development and safety courses.

“I’m ready to get back into it,” she said. “I miss the kids, and I wish they could all be here. But for those who will be learning remotely, we’re more prepared. There are high expectations, and we’re much more familiar with the learning platforms.”

Using lessons learned this past spring, Buncombe County Schools (BCS) is prepared for both in-person and remote learning. COVID-19 safety protocols have been instituted for everyone entering BCS buildings and buses. The BCS Maintenance Department has marked off physical distancing spacers and taken other protective measures. The BCS Technology Department has expanded access to cellular Homework Hotspots, improved infrastructure and provided training for teachers and families using remote learning management systems. BCS School Nutrition will serve meals in school and will provide curbside pickup for remote learners.

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Buncombe County Schools will provide MEANINGFUL learning experiences in the 2020-2021 school year while keeping safety a top priority. Plan B - Beyond will roll out in three phases:

1) The school year will start with an in-person orientation for all grades.
2) After orientation, students will learn remotely until Sept. 28.
3) The Buncombe County Board of Education will determine what happens after Sept. 28 based on available guidance and requirements from state and local officials.

Student success is a team effort, and Buncombe County Schools views parents and guardians as learning partners. For resources to help make remote learning more successful, visit ReturnToLearn.BuncombeSchools.org.

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