Frequently Asked Questions

1.) Is virtual learning an option for my child?

After receiving further guidance from the MS State Department of Health, the SCSD made the decision to reopen schools with the option of a traditional or virtual learning schedule. However, virtual learning is ONLY an option for students who have a suitable device and access to reliable internet. Parents choosing the virtual learning schedule must complete the Virtual Learning Requirements form and return it to the school their child attends. Virtual Learning Requirements forms can be picked up at any school or may be downloaded from the SCSD website. The forms MUST be returned to the school the child attends by Thursday, July 30, 2020.

If your child has an IEP, these cases will be handled on an individual basis. Contact the building principal of the school your child attends for further instructions.

2.) Regarding Virtual Learning:

a.)    Multiple children in the family:

Most lessons will be recorded and will not require all students to be logged in simultaneously.

b.)   Diagnostic Screening:

Diagnostic screening is a checkpoint mandated by MDE to measure student growth at the beginning, middle and the end of school year. The student’s assigned teacher will contact the parent to schedule a time to complete screenings so that the student does not test with the general population. Students must be transported to the school by parents in order to complete the required screenings.

c.)    Assignment submission:

Assignment may be scanned or emailed to the teacher using a device. As a last resort, assignments may be dropped off at the school.

d.)   What does the day look like for those who chose virtual learning?

Each school sets their own schedule and requirements. Please contact the school once sign-ups have been completed.

3.) In the event schools have to be closed and SCSD moves to virtual learning, will the SCSD provide devices for students to take home?

While the SCSD has ordered additional devices, the SCSD is not equipped to go one-on-one at this time. Shipments are back logged due to nation-wide demand and may not arrive in a timely manner. In the event MDE makes the decision to close schools, the SCSD is working diligently to ensure a plan is in place when that time comes. Those choosing to go with the Virtual Learning option at the beginning of school are required to have a suitable device along with access to reliable internet. Please note, any smart device (smart phones, tablets, laptops, Chromebooks, etc.) you currently possess should be sufficient for virtual learning.

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4.) When do students return to school for the 2020-2021 school year?

Students have the option to return to school on a TRADITIONAL or VIRTUAL learning schedule. Students returning on a TRADITIONAL SCHEDULE will begin on Thursday, August 6, 2020. Students returning on a VIRTUAL LEARNING SCHEDULE will begin virtual learning on Thursday, August 13, 2020.

*IF you are choosing virtual learning, you must complete the Virtual Learning Requirements form and return it to the school your child attends by Thursday, July 30, 2020.

5.) Is there a dress code for wearing masks?

Face masks, neck buffs and/or neck gaiters may be any color but may not be embellished (including vinyl, embroidery, monogramming, etc.). Any print must be school appropriate. No bandannas are permissible. School level administrators will have final approval.

The SCSD has purchased a reusable/washable cloth mask for ALL students and employees.

6.) why do I have to purchase school supplies and pay for school lunches when the district received 'CARES' funding?

CARES funding is the allocation from the government in response to COVID-19. The portion of CARES funding that was allocated for education is referred to as Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief or ESSER. The SCSD received $768,000.00 in ESSER funding.

The ESSER funding received by SCSD was used to purchase educational services, instructional staff support services, health services, sanitation services and guidance services. Supplies purchased for all schools include technology devices, protective covers/cases, masks and face shields, infrared thermometers, medical gloves, hand sanitizers/dispensers, disinfectant cleaners, wipes, disinfectant fogger/sprayer machines, disposable Styrofoam trays & bowls, plastic utensils, plexiglass, touchless water fountain conversion kits/dispensers, paper cups, mental health support supplies and curriculum. Instructional support services include technology training, Google Classroom, Swivl, Zoom, and Restart Planning Training – Kids First. Additional nursing and janitorial services were also purchased.      

These funds may not be used to pay for school lunches.

You may submit further questions to [email protected]. Thank you for your patience and continued support!