School Board approves Jan. 4 return to school

After more than an hour of weighing the pros and cons of the local COVID-19 situation in, the Lincoln School board voted Monday night to return to in-person classes Jan. 4.

The School Board held the special meeting via zoom Monday evening to discuss where things stood following more than a month of school closure and online classes. Lincoln Schools first closed Nov. 16 following a number of close contacts among students and staff. On Nov. 25, the board extended the closure to Jan. 4 as COVID-19 cases continued to climb in the community.

The local COVID-19 situation remains murky. Lincoln School Board Chairman Aaron Birkholz, said he knows the state is still reporting 13 cases in Lincoln, but he also knows that number is likely outdated.

Despite the uncertainty, the decision to return to the classroom grew out of concern for students who are struggling by being out of school.

"The kids who are struggling, there are three weeks left in the quarter... those three weeks in the classroom could help tremendously getting them caught up." said School Board member Sarah Tams.

Second grade teacher Lorretta Greenough said the online instruction is taking a toll on her elementary students. "Both academically and emotionally, my group of students is not thriving," she said.

Despite reservations on the part of some teachers, those taking part in the call agreed to return Jan.4, but will be far more serious about enforcing mask wearing and sanitation measures.

The school will continue to provide the medical exemptions, will mandate masks throughout the day and will ensure students get breaks throughout the day.