The start of the 2020-21 school year will not be like any other we have experienced here in the Chippewa Falls area community. Throughout the summer, the district's administrators, teachers and staff have been hard at work preparing for a variety of scenarios related to how teaching and learning could look in an age of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At this time, the district plans to reopen its school buildings to students and staff at the start of the school year. The first day of school will be Tuesday, September 1. 

The district is planning for a number of new protocols and procedures designed to protect public health and safety. This includes additional cleaning protocols, increased opportunities for handwashing, water bottles permitted for students and staff and procedures in place to care for students who are showing COVID-19 symptoms.

In addition, personal protective equipment will be required for staff members. Masks or face shields will not be required of students, but they will be highly recommended and accepted. The district aims to create an environment in which no individual feels there is a stigma associated with wearing a mask for safety purposes. 

It's also worth noting that the school district could find a need to return to all-virtual learning once again at some point in the year. The district's educators and staff have been preparing for this possibility, as well. If this scenario arises, virtual learning would be required for all students. 

If you would like to learn more about the CFAUSD's Roadmap to Reopening, visit https://cfsd.chipfalls.k12.wi.us/district/COVID19/RoadmapToReopening.pdf. This page includes updates on the district's reopening plan, safety procedures in school buildings and a wide range of other key information. 

Although it's difficult to know for sure how the school year will go, the district remains committed to protecting the health and safety of all students, staff, families and community members. It is our hope that teaching and learning can proceed with as few interruptions as possible.