Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/27/2020 4:00:00 PM

 

March 27 Update

Today marks 14 days since Fulton County Schools were closed district-wide. As we reach this point, it is worth noting public health officials will consider new COVID-19 cases as "community spread", meaning beyond potential, direct contact at schools. Growth of newly confirmed cases in Fulton County cases remains concerning and we encourage all Fulton employees and families to continue following guidance from public health officials. This includes monitoring your family's health for flu-like symptoms and COVID-19 indicators and reporting to a local healthcare provider if you feel ill. During the closure, Fulton County Schools will continue to follow the COVID-19/coronavirus guidelines as shared by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Georgia Department of Public Health and Fulton County Public Health.

 

For additional information, the following are links to these resources:

• The Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html   
• The Fulton County Board of Health (FCBOH) has a call center. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. County residents can call the hotline for answers to general questions about the novel coronavirus, get their specimen collection (test) results, and speak to a nurse if they are sick and or believe they may have been exposed to the coronavirus. Residents can also speak to a representative about getting screened at the County’s specimen collection (testing) site.

Specimen Collection (testing) is currently available for residents who meet the following criteria:

• Adults age 60 or older
• Caregivers of those 60 and over
• Caregivers of those who are immune-compromised
• Healthcare workers
• Patients with serious chronic or medical conditions (e.g. heart disease; diabetes; or lung disease)
• Those who work and live in a congregate setting

The number to the Fulton County Board of Health COVID-19 Hotline is 404-613-8150.

• The State of Georgia has a new COVID-19 hotline. If you believe that you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, please contact your primary care doctor or an urgent care clinic. Please do not show up unannounced at an emergency room or health care facility. Hotline: (844) 442-2681

 

Remote Learning Teacher Video

During the two weeks since Fulton County Schools (FCS) closed, student learning continues and it looks and feels different.

This learn-from-home approach, which FCS calls "Remote Learning," is the district's strategy to support learning continuity when students are away from school for an extended period of time. It uses both online and non-digital instruction to keep students connected to their schoolwork, either through an FCS-provided device; a student's home computer, personal tablet or cell phone; or through paper packets picked up from designated school sites.

In today's message, we are excited to share a perspective from two teachers about what they are doing to promote Remote Learning. Please see the link to a video from Tim Reeder from Chattahoochee High School and Kiana Willis from Palmetto Elementary who took a little time to share their thoughts.

 

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Hoy se cumplen 14 días desde que las Escuelas del Condado de Fulton fueron cerradas en todo el distrito.  A medida que lleguemos a este punto, es importante saber que los funcionarios de salud pública considerarán los nuevos casos de COVID-19 como "difusión comunitaria", lo que significa, más allá del potencial, contacto directo en las escuelas.  El reciente crecimiento de los casos confirmados en el condado de Fulton sigue siendo preocupante. Pedimos a todos los empleados y familias de Fulton que sigan las recomendaciones de los funcionarios de saludpública.  Esto incluye monitorear la salud de su familia y estar al pendiente en caso de que presenten síntomas similares a los de influenza o algún otro síntoma que pueda ser indicador de COVID-19 e informar a un proveedor de atención médica local si se siente mal.  Durante el cierre, las Escuelas del Condado de Fulton continuarán siguiendo las pautas de COVID-19/coronavirus compartidas por el Centro para el Control de Enfermedades (CDC), el Departamento de Salud Pública de Georgia y la Salud Pública del Condado de Fulton.

Para obtener información adicional, los siguientes son vínculos a estos recursos:

• El Centro para el Control de Enfermedades: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
• La Junta de Salud del Condado de Fulton (FCBOH) tiene un centro de llamadas. El centro de llamadas está abierto de lunes a viernes de 8:30 a.m. hasta las 5 p.m. Los residentes del condado pueden llamar a la línea directa para obtener respuestas a preguntas generales sobre el nuevo coronavirus, obtener sus resultados de colección de especímenes (prueba), y hablar con una enfermera si están enfermos y/o creen que pueden haber estado expuestos al coronavirus. Los residentes también pueden hablar con un representante acerca de ser examinado en el sitio de colección de especímenes (pruebas) del condado.

La colección de especímenes (pruebas) está actualmente disponible para los residentes que cumplen con los siguientes requisitos:

• Adultos mayores de 60 años
• Cuidadores de personas de 60 años o más
• Cuidadores de aquellos que están inmunocomprometidos
• Trabajadores de la salud
• Pacientes con enfermedades crónicas o graves (por ejemplo, enfermedad del corazón; diabetes; o enfermedad pulmonar)
• Aquellos que trabajan y viven congregados en un solo sitio

El número de la Línea Directa COVID-19 de la Junta de Salud del Condado de Fulton es 404-613-8150.

• El Estado de Georgia tiene una nueva línea directa COVID-19. Si cree que está experimentando síntomas de COVID-19 o ha estado expuesto al nuevo coronavirus, póngase en contacto con su médico de atención primaria o con una clínica de atención urgente. Por favor, no se presenten sin previo aviso en una sala de emergencias o centro de atención médica. Línea directa:  (844) 442-2681

 

 

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Aprendizaje remoto a través de Video

Durante las dos semanas desde el cierre de las escuelas del condado de Fulton (FCS), el aprendizaje de los estudiantes ha continuado aunque se ve y se siente diferente.

Este enfoque de aprender desde casa, que FCS llama "Aprendizaje Remoto", es la estrategia del distrito para apoyar la continuidad de aprendizaje cuando los estudiantes están fuera de la escuela por un tiempo o período prolongado. Utiliza una combinación de instrucción en línea y no digital para mantener a los estudiantes conectados a sus tareas escolares, ya sea a través de un dispositivo proporcionado por FCS; la computadora doméstica, tableta personal o teléfono celular de un estudiante; o a través de paquetes en papel recogidos de sitios escolares designados.

En el mensaje de hoy, estamos emocionados de compartir una perspectiva de dos maestros sobre lo que están haciendo para promover el aprendizaje remoto. Por favor, vea el siguiente enlace que viene siendo un video hecho por Tim Reeder de Chattahoochee High School y Kiana Willis de Palmetto Elementary quienes tomaron un poco de tiempo para compartir con nosotros sus pensamientos.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/26/2020 5:30:00 PM

 

Schools Remain Closed Through April 24

The Fulton County School system supports Governor Kemp's decision to extend school closure until April 24th. As health concerns for our state and community are taking priority, the school district is also striving to ensure we do all we can to help stem the spread of the coronavirus. See the Governor's press release via this link.

FCS has been prepared for this outcome, and our district will continue the remote learning process already underway. During this period, FCS will also honor spring break from April 6-10 for our families and employees.

There remain many uncertainties and we are working hard to develop answers to serious concerns. FCS is working closely with State School Superintendent Woods, the GA Department of Education and other metro districts to develop guidance on critical events and issues, such as graduation ceremonies, promotion and retention by grade levels, and proms. Decisions regarding non-academic events including hiring, school construction, and a host of others, are also being considered and will be coming in the days and weeks to come.

In the meantime, we appreciate the dedication of our community - students, teachers, principals, staff, parents and taxpayers - and ask for your continued patience and incredible efforts to work though this crisis.

 

FCS Holds Virtual Hiring Fair

Fulton County Schools will be holding several “Virtual” Hiring Events in April 2020. While this is not our first online event, it is more important now than ever before to find great candidates and still follow recommended health and safety guidelines. We will hold events on the following dates:

• April 14 & 21 - Certified Elementary and Special Education Teachers
• April 15 & 22 – Certified Middle School & Special Education Teachers
• April 16 & 23 - Certified High School & Special Education Teachers

Candidates must register for these events by going to http://bit.ly/FCSSpring20 and looking for the green "Fulton Bot" pop up in the lower right side of your web browser. There you will find answers and instructions on how to sign up for these upcoming events. Teach. Grow. Thrive. Come home to Fulton County Schools!

 

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Las escuelas permanecen cerradas hasta el 24 de abril

El sistema de las Escuelas del Condado de Fulton apoya la decisión del gobernador Kemp de extender el cierre de las escuelas hasta el 24 de abril. A medida que se le da prioridad a los problemas de salud de nuestro estado y nuestra comunidad, el distrito escolar también se esfuerza por asegurar que hagamos todo lo posible para ayudar a detener la propagación del coronavirus.   Vea el comunicado de prensa del Gobernador a través de este enlace.

FCS ha estado preparado para este efecto, y nuestro distrito continuará el proceso de aprendizaje remoto ya en marcha.  Durante este período, FCS también honrará las vacaciones de primavera del 6 al 10 de abril para nuestras familias y empleados.

Sigue habiendo muchas incertidumbres y estamos trabajando arduamente para desarrollar respuestas a las preocupaciones graves.   FCS está trabajando en estrecha colaboración con el Superintendente Estatal de Escuelas Woods, el Departamento de Educación de GA y otros distritos de metro para desarrollar orientación sobre eventos y temas críticos, tales como ceremonias de graduación, promoción y retención por niveles de grado, y fiestas de graduación.  Las decisiones relativas a eventos no académicos, incluyendo la contratación de empleados, la construcción de escuelas y una serie de otros, también están siendo consideradas y se ofrecerán en los próximos días y semanas.

Tanto, apreciamos la dedicación de nuestra comunidad (estudiantes, maestros, directores, personal, padres y contribuyentes) y pedimos su paciencia continua y sus increíbles esfuerzos para trabajar a través de esta crisis.

 

 

FCS celebra feria de contratación virtual

Las Escuelas del Condado de Fulton llevarán a cabo varios Eventos de Contratación "Virtuales" en abril de 2020. Si bien este no es nuestro primer evento en línea, es más importante ahora que nunca encontrar buenos candidatos y seguir las pautas de salud y seguridad recomendadas. Celebraremos eventos en las siguientes fechas: 

• 14 y 21 de abril - Maestros Certificados de Educación Primaria y Especial
• 15 y 22 de abril – Maestros Certificados de Escuela Secundaria y Educación Especial
• 16 y 23 de abril - Maestros Certificados de Escuela Secundaria Superior y Educación Especial

Los candidatos deben registrarse para estos eventos yendo a http://bit.ly/FCSSpring20 y buscando el pop-up verde "Fulton Bot" en la parte inferior derecha de su navegador web. Allí encontrará respuestas e instrucciones sobre cómo inscribirse en estos próximos eventos. Enseñar. Crecer. Prosperar. ¡Vuelva a casa a las escuelas del condado de Fulton!

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/25/2020 6:00:00 PM

 

Today’s message includes information about Spring registration for prekindergarten, kindergarten and new first grade students.  We have included Spanish, Korean and Chinese Spring Registration information below, and links to comprehensive information.

Going forward, we will share Spanish translations of our ongoing messages on our website: www.fultonschools.org/Coronavirus.  We are thankful for those who have volunteered to assist us with these translations!

 

Spring Registration

Click this link to see all of the details you need to complete registration.

Spring registration for prekindergarten, kindergarten and new first graders is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6 and Thursday, May 7, 2020.

Registration will be conducted virtually throughout the district on Wednesday, May 6 and Thursday, May 7; however, Kindergarten and new student registration is ongoing, and parents are encouraged to use the online enrollment application process at their convenience. Only parents of NEW kindergarten and first grade students need to register on these dates. It is not necessary for parents of currently enrolled Pre-K students to use the online process for kindergarten registration.

Translations in Spanish, Korean and Chinese for Spring Registration can be found below.

 

Census 2020

Although COVID-19 currently dominates the news headlines, another important and historical event is happening right now – the U.S. Census. This nationwide population count occurs every 10 years, and the data it collects will determine many of the federal, state and local resources our schools receive. Responding to the Census might not be on the top of your list right now, but it is still important that your family participates by April 1, which is “Census Day.” The Census has a large effect on school funding, including the resources we receive for special education, classroom technology, teacher training, after-school programs and school lunch assistance. It also affects the funding and resources that our emergency agencies receive.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Census Bureau began mailing information to families with instructions to respond by phone, by mail or online. More information about Fulton County Schools’ role in the Census, as well as other resources from the U.S. Census Bureau and Georgia Census, are posted here: www.fultonschools.org/Census2020.

 

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Spanish
El registro de primavera para prekindergarten, jardín de infantes y nuevos estudiantes de primer grado está programado para el miércoles, 6 de mayo y jueves, 7 de mayo del 2020.

La inscripción se llevará a cabo prácticamente en todo el distrito el miércoles, 6 de mayo y jueves, 7 de mayo; sin embargo, Kindergarten y el nuevo registro de estudiantes está en curso y se alienta a los padres a usar el proceso de solicitud de inscripción en línea a su conveniencia. Sólo los padres de nuevos estudiantes de jardín de infantes y primer grado necesitan registrarse en estas fechas. No es necesario que los padres de los estudiantes pre-K actualmente inscritos utilicen el proceso en línea para el registro de kindergarten.

 

Korean
Prekindergarten, kindergarten, 그리고 1학년 신입생 등록(Spring registration)날짜가 2020년 5월 6일 수요일과 5월 7일 목요일로 정해졌습니다.

 등록은 5월 6일 수요일과 5월 7일 목요일 온라인으로 실행될 것입니다. 그러나 Kindergarten과 신입생 등록은 계속 진행중이므로 학부모님들께서는 편하신 시간에 온라인 신청을 이용해주시기를 바랍니다. 오직 새로 등록하는kindergarten과 1학년 신입 학생들만이  이 날짜에 등록을 해야합니다. 현재 Pre-K를 다니고 있는 학생의 학부모님들께서는 kindergarten등록을 온라인으로 하실 필요는 없습니다.  

 

Chinese
学龄前幼儿班，幼儿园和新的一年級學生春季报名并于2020年5月6日星期三和5月7日星期四进行。

注册将在星期三 ，五月6日和星期四，五月7日在整个学区进行；但是，幼儿园和新生注册会持续进行中，我们鼓励家长使用方便的线上注册申请流程。只有新的幼儿园和一年级的学生需要在这几天注册。目前就读的学前班学生的父母没有必要使用在线申请流程进行幼儿园注册。

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/24/2020 7:00:00 PM

 

#FCSrising Highlights

It has been amazing to see our community engaging online during this crisis. Since Superintendent Looney charged us with sharing our moments using #FCSrising, we have seen inspiring pictures and videos of so many students, parents and teachers every day and staff working hard to ensure meals are distributed and our facilities remain safe and clean. 

We wanted to share a few excerpts about remote learning and FCS support teams with you here. 

 

  
   

Please click here to view a collection of Twitter posts.

 

Division of Family and Children Services Offers Virtual Assistance

For families in need of SNAP, Medicaid or TANF benefits, below is information to access services virtually as shared by the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS).

 

Apply for Food Stamp and Medicaid Benefits
Visit: gateway.ga.gov (verification documents can also be uploaded, and case status info is available for all benefits)

Download an Application:
https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services 

 

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)
Visit: https://www.connectebt.com/gaebtclient  or call 888-421-3281 for updates

 

Please feel free to share this information with those without internet access.
They can contact the DFCS Customer Contact Center at 877-423-4746 for additional information or to request a paper application. Once completed, applications and any required verification can be mailed back to your local county DFCS office.  County office locations are available online at  https://dfcs.georgia.gov/locations or click here for more information:   https://www.connectebt.com/gaebtclient/index.jsp.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/23/2020 4:00:00 PM

 

Testing

Last week, the State of Georgia (GaDOE) submitted waivers for assessment and accountability policies to the US Department of Education (USED). The USED intends to issue a formal approval in the coming weeks. According to the GaDOE, "educators, parents, and students can expect that no state testing - to include Georgia Milestones, GAA 2.0, and GKIDS - will be administered this year." More details will be forthcoming from these departments about the long-term process and impact. We will continue to keep you updated as we learn more.

 

International Baccalaureate Exams

Similarly, all International Baccalaureate (IB) exams for May 2020 have been canceled. More information for schools and parents will be provided by the IB on March 27.  For the latest IB updates, visit https://www.ibo.org/news/news-about-the-ib/covid-19-coronavirus-updates/.

 

Advanced Placement Exams

The College Board has announced its plan for 2020 AP testing to be conducted online.  Students will complete the 45-minute online free-response exam from home. Test dates for the 2020 exams will be released on April 3. For the latest AP updates, visit https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/about-ap/news-changes/coronavirus-update.

 

New CDC Parent Resource

Parents, please see a new resource shared by the CDC today: Children and Coronavirus Disease 2019: Tips to Keep Children Healthy While School's Out

 

Meal Distribution

Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, the FCS Nutrition program expanded its meal distribution from six to 21 sites. Families can pick up meals for all children under the age of 18, or under the age of 21 for youth with special needs. Children must be present in order for meals to be provided. Click the following link for our Food Distribution Sites.

 

Remote Learning

Although schools are closed, students will continue instruction from home through "Remote Learning," the school district's strategy for learning continuity. This plan encompasses both short- and long-term closures and includes online/digital learning elements as well as a component for those without internet access. More information about the program can be found here. If you have questions about remote learning, please contact your child's teacher.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/20/2020 4:00:00 PM

 

We all keep hearing in the media and from organizations across the spectrum, that our country and our community are facing an "unprecedented" challenge with the coronavirus. That is true. Schools have been closed in Fulton County longer than anywhere else in Georgia, and you understand that personally.

We have to accept there is a new, but hopefully short-term, standard for "normal operations" during these times. We know this increases the demands on all families. Many parents are working from home, trying to make ends meet, and juggling other responsibilities, such as keeping learning opportunities available for their children.

Fulton County Schools and our dedicated teachers and staff are doing all we can to help provide resources. It is inspirational to see teachers from all subjects and grades engaging online. Still, a lot of how we as a whole will be successful, depends on how we as individuals manage our homes and families. We do not have all the answers. We do, however, want to share some guidance today to help you think about how you will choose to address the educational opportunities in your household. Click this link to learn more.

There has been an amazing amount of inspirational examples already happening, and we will continue to work with you in partnership to get through this crisis. While none of us know how long this will go on, we at Fulton County Schools remain optimistic. We are confident that our community will thrive and be successful.

 

Device Deployment:

For those still in need of device and online support, the district is evaluating the process for delivering these resources. Our team will be working over the weekend to refine the program and an update will be sent to families by Monday, March 23.

 

Food Distribution:

Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, the FCS Nutrition program will expand its meal distribution from six to 21 sites. Families can pick up meals for all children under the age of 18, or under the age of 21 for youth with special needs. Children must be present in order for meals to be provided. Please click to see the updated English or Spanish food distribution site list.

Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/19/2020 7:00:00 PM

 

March 19 Update

Our update today shares news from our virtual Board Meeting, as well as new sites for our food distribution and information about device deployment.

Following the Center for Disease (CDC) recommendation against groups greater than 10 gathering, The Fulton County Board of Education held its first-ever virtual meeting in place of their regularly scheduled, in-person meeting.  During this time, public bodies are working remotely and calling meetings across the country in similar fashion and we are all working through technical challenges.  Utilizing Microsoft Teams and broadcasting live on the FCS website and cable TV channels, the Board conducted business and voted on a number of items regarding contracts, construction and budgetary steps.  All information about the agenda and actions taken are available on Board Docs (a web site that provides public availability to view agendas and supporting documents associated with each School Board Meeting) with the same access that is available for all Board meetings.

In particular, the Board discussed the uncharted circumstances around the current school closure caused by the coronavirus crisis and the devise and food distribution programs.

 

Device Deployment

Many Fulton students whose schools began device deployment earlier this year are familiar with and using their devices to successfully complete and submit schoolwork.  While those students may need additional support from their teachers or technology support, the process is working.  Our current device deployment is for those students who did not receive a device at the beginning of the school year or those whose grade levels were not previously included (i.e., grades three through five.)  A total of 3,238 devices were distributed over the two days, with additional printed packets for younger students.

We appreciate the patience of our parents and staff as we continue this new phase of device deployment.  Just as students are learning digitally, we are also learning our way through this new process.  We are on our way, together, and we will arrive at a good place with our remote learning platform.

 

Food Distribution Sites

Fulton County Schools is leveraging the USDA’s Seamless Summer Option to serve meals during our school closure. As the name indicates, this program feeds underserved students during our summer months. Meals are served free of charge to any child age 18 years and under. School offering this program are selected based on the socio-economic status of students residing within the school attendance area or the socio-economic status of feeder schools.

To limit social gatherings, Fulton County Schools used a grab-and-go model at six centrally located school sites. Service was provided on Monday and Wednesday this week and will be again tomorrow, Friday, March 20.  We are providing multiple meals in each package so that students have meals from the day of pick-up until the next day of service.

We have had a very successful week with 16,200 meals distributed on Monday and another 15,176 meals given out on Wednesday.

At this evening’s school board meeting, the school district announced it is expanding service from the six existing locations to a total of 21 Seamless Summer school sites beginning Monday, March 23. Distributions will occur on Monday (3/23), Wednesday (3/25) and Friday (3/27) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This moves us from a centralized hub model to a more decentralized model and provides increased access to meals while also meeting public health guidance related to social distancing.

Food distribution from the locations listed below will begin on Monday, March 23: 

Asa Hilliard ES 3353 Mount Olive Rd. Atlanta, Ga. 30344	Lake Forest ES 5920 Sandy Springs Circle Sandy Springs, Ga. 30328	McNair MS 2800 Burdett Rd. Atlanta, GA 30349
Brookview ES 3250 Hammarskjold Dr. East Point, GA 30344	Hapeville ES 3440 N. Fulton Ave. Hapeville, GA 30354	Sandy Springs MS 8750 Pride Pl. Sandy Springs, GA 30350
College Park ES 2075 Princeton Ave. College Park, GA 30337	Liberty Point ES 9000 High Point Rd. Union City, GA 30291	Banneker HS 6015 Feldwood Rd. Atlanta, GA 30349
Gullatt ES 6110 Dodson Dr. Union City, GA 30291	Mimosa ES 1550 Warsaw Road Roswell, GA 30076	Creekside HS 7405 Herndon Rd. Fairburn, GA 30213
Hamilton E. Holmes ES 2301 Connally Dr. East Point, GA 30344	Vickery Mill ES 1201 Alpharetta St. Roswell, GA 30075	Langston Hughes HS 7510 Hall Rd. Fairburn, GA 30213
Ison Springs ES 8261 Ison Rd. Sandy Springs, GA 30350	Haynes Bridge MS 10665 Haynes Bridge Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30022	Tri-Cities HS 2575 Harris St. East Point, GA 30344
Esther Jackson ES 1400 Martin Rd. Roswell, GA 30076	Holcomb Bridge MS 2700 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30022	Westlake HS 2400 Union Rd. SW Atlanta, GA 30331

 

Community Resources Community Resources

Don’t forget about our community resource page:  www.fultonschools.org/communityresources.

Many in our community have asked how they can help our students, staff and families. Fulton County Schools has created this web page where resources are listed, such as food banks and distribution programs, online tutoring, and internet providers offering free or low-cost connectivity.  The generous support and offerings from our community and partners continuing to grow, please check back often as we update resource information.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/18/2020 5:30:00 PM

 

FCS Rising

COVID-19 has created a worldwide challenge; fortunately, the Fulton County Schools community is up for it.  There are thousands of inspiring stories being generated during this time of crisis.  Teachers, students and families are connecting in many creative ways.  If you are curious about “Remote Learning” and what that looks like outside of your home, find a few examples of pictures captured on social media using our hashtag: #FCSRising. We are all in this together!  Share your pictures on https://www.facebook.com/FultonCountySchools,  https://twitter.com/FultonCoSchools, or https://www.instagram.com/fultoncoschools using #FCSRising.

 

Board Meeting Thursday

The community is invited to attend our virtual Board Meeting on Thursday, March 19 at 4:00 p.m.

The school board will meet at 2 p.m. for executive session, followed by their regular meeting at approximately 4 p.m.  All topics up for approval are posted on BoardDocs, a website that makes the school board agenda and all supporting documents available online. The meeting’s business agenda will begin immediately after the public comment session.

School board meetings can be watched live on FCSTV Comcast Channel 24, AT&T Ch. 99, and Google Fiber TV Ch. 145 or from a computer using this link and will be streamed live on the FCS TV website.

 

Community Resources

In response to the needs of our families and community, we are providing a resource page as a “one-stop shop” to share partners and provider websites and contacts.  Click this link to learn more.  If you don’t see a resource and know of others we can share, please send us the name and contact information to community@fultonschools.org.  We will continue adding additional resources to this site.

 

Social Distancing

Social Distancing remains critical to impede the spread of COVID-19.  Click here to read more about “How to Get Serious About Social Distancing.”  Continue to practice social distancing by avoiding social gatherings (of 10 or more), maintaining healthy distances (six feet or more), and staying away from public places as much as possible. 

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/17/2020 5:00:00 PM

 

Board Meeting Update

In another special called meeting Tuesday, Superintendent Mike Looney updated the Board of Education on key items enacted to ensure continuity of learning during the coronavirus pandemic.

Dr. Looney reported that he utilized approximately $ 1.5 million in SPLOST funding designated for technology to purchase 3,000 additional devices as a short-term solution for students to have access during this unexpected time away from classrooms.  The Superintendent and Board also discussed the implementation of the meal and device distribution executed over the last few days. As the Board brought questions and shared input they have received from the community, Dr. Looney pledged to review the programs continuously and make adjustments.

 

Schools closed until March 31

As you may have heard, Governor Kemp has directed all school systems in Georgia to stay closed through March 31. During the Board update referenced above, Dr. Looney indicated FCS is considering the appropriate time to reopen, whether that is March 31 or later. In consultation with public health officials and considering Spring Break is scheduled for the Week of April 6-10, we are considering the option of remaining closed until Monday, April 13. Therefore, our remote learning options will continue as a critical way for students to stay engaged while they are away from school. We appreciate the diligence of our teachers and families who are adjusting to this learning shift.

 

Testing postponed

We have received questions from families about state testing requirements.  State Superintendent Richard Woods has now postponed mandated testing including Georgia Milestones and the CCRPI. Staff evaluations and Climate Star ratings are also postponed. Please click the link here for the complete list of items suspended by the Georgia Department of Education.

 

Remote Learning

If you are following our social media, you will see the hashtag #FCSrising. This is to show our community that the coronavirus will not stop learning in Fulton County Schools!

Throughout our school district, students and teachers have been involved in Remote Learning using both online platforms and printed packets. In earlier elementary grades, students are working on printed paper packets while middle and high school students, using the ClassLink program, are logging into iReady to do English/Language and mathematics assignments. On the administrative side, teachers, school leadership and central office staff are using Microsoft Teams for meetings and to collaborate on work.

On the first day of Remote Learning, there were more than 70,500 log-ins to ClassLink, and over 43,000 logins to iReady. From the pictures you are sending, it looks like students and parents are trying to be creative and make learning fun at home. The Remote Learning website, www.fultonschools.org/RemoteLearning has resource guides available as well as the Remote Learning Hotline number, 470-254-2300. As you continue learning at home, remember to use #FCSrising on social media so we can see what you are doing!

Parents who wish to see report cards for the first 12 weeks of second semester can view them via our Infinite Campus parent portal. If you do not have an account, check to see if you have received an email on Monday with instructions to create an account, or ask your student to log into Campus Student via ClassLink to access report cards.

 

Meal Distribution

Meal distribution continues at six sites in FCS (locations can be found at this link). Families are invited to pick up food this week on Wednesday and Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

 

Social Distancing

Check out 15 Days to Slow the Spread of COVID-19 as shared by the CDC.  Also continue to practice social distancing by avoiding large gatherings (of 50 or more) and social gatherings (of 10 or more), maintaining healthy distances (six feet or more), and staying away from public places as much as possible.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/16/2020 5:00:00 PM

 

Meal Distribution

Hunger does not recognize school closures, so Fulton County Schools is offering food to students who rely on the meals they receive at school. Across six centrally located school sites, FCS School Nutrition team members assembled close to 24,000 meals for distribution today, with each site offering approximately 1,000 food packages. Each package contains four meals - two breakfasts and two lunches - to feed students until the next meal package. Any FCS student under 18 (or under 21 if a youth with special needs), regardless of income, can receive a free school meal package.

Meals are being provided three times a week to students in need. Many children are considered "food insecure," which means they often don't have a dependable source of meals outside of their school. School breakfast and lunch may be the most food they eat every day, so it is important that Fulton County Schools and other organizations help provide some meal continuity.

The School Nutrition Department has enacted emergency plans in the past when there have been issues affecting a school's operations, such as a gas leak or water shortage, but the volume in this situation is a new record. By the week's end, FCS is estimating it will have put together roughly 72,000 meals.

 

Remote Learning #FCSrising

Today was hugely encouraging from a remote learning perspective as well. Students, parents and teachers joined together online to share creative ideas and show support for continued learning during our extended break from schools. Events continue to change and uncertainly in our schedule has not stopped you from doing what is best for kids. For more information about Remote Learning, please check out the site: https://www.fultonschools.org/remotelearning. And, please continue to share your stories with us and use the hashtag #FCSrising.

 

New Community Resources Page

Many social support organizations have generously asked how they can help our students, staff and families. Fulton County Schools is creating a web page where resources can be listed, such as food banks and distribution programs, online tutoring, and internet providers offering free or low-cost connectivity. Stay tuned for more information about this resource page.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/15/2020 5:00:00 PM

 

Meal Distribution:

Our student meal distribution will begin on Monday, March 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at six sites across the county.

• Lake Forest Elementary School, Sandy Springs
• Mimosa Elementary, Roswell
• Haynes Bridge Middle School, Alpharetta
• Tri-Cities High School, East Point
• Banneker High School, College Park
• Langston Hughes High School, Fairburn

For all arriving by car, meals will be brought out to you; please do not leave your vehicle. Individuals arriving by foot or public transportation should avoid congregating in large groups. Although we appreciate the willingness of our community to assist, we are not allowing volunteers. Please know we have limited staff. We appreciate your patience as they are dedicated and will coordinate this effort as efficiently as possible, but our goal remains to complete this while keeping potential exposure to the community as limited as possible. Details about locations and times for this distribution program can be found here or descargar en español.

 

Confirmed Case During School Operations:

Fulton County Schools has now been notified about a confirmed case of a staff member at Banneker High School. As the employee was at school during the last day of operation, we are notifying our community. Local public health officials will contact those individuals who may be directly impacted.

 

What Does This Mean for Meal Distribution at This Site?

After school was released on Thursday, the school was cleaned and disinfected.  It will be cleaned and disinfected again today.

Therefore, to ensure students in the area receive much needed nutritional support, Banneker will remain a distribution point for meals.

We reiterate the school was cleaned and disinfected already and additional efforts are being made to clean and disinfected prior to staff returning and food preparation beginning on Monday.

 

Reporting Going Forward:

As was communicated on Saturday, newly reported cases after the closure of schools will be reported by public health agencies. We ask employees to continue self-reporting to Fulton County Schools Talent Division in order for the district to monitor internally. We will also report any cases to public health as they track cases across the state.

If you have any symptoms, stay at home and contact a medical professional if they persist.

 

REMINDER about Social Distancing:

We also encourage our community to follow CDC guidelines about social distancing.

The CDC and public health officials are continuing to share guidance for the general public to practice "social distancing," which they have described as "all individuals should limit community movement and adapt to disruptions in routine activities." The CDC also says, "social distancing means remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible." Please be mindful and take precautions daily. These measures and overall good hygiene practices will help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/14/2020 5:00:00 PM

 

We are providing an additional update based upon the most current information received. The current situation is truly unprecedented and ever-changing, this means plans change day-by-day. While our local schools and offices remain closed, we ask that we all do our part, and that our families and community continue to follow the guidelines shared by local, state and national authorities and public health officials.

 

Social Distancing:

The CDC and public health officials are continuing to share guidance for the general public to practice "social distancing", which they have described as "all individuals should limit community movement and adapt to disruptions in routine activities." The CDC also says, "social distancing means remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible." Please be mindful and take precautions daily. These measures and overall good hygiene practices will help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

 

Announced Confirmations:

During this closure of schools, all newly confirmed COVID-19 cases will be communicated by public health officials. Fulton County Board of Public Health may notify FCS of potential impact to employees, and we will work with them to share any information they need; however, direction will be given by health officials to contact individuals to determine next steps, such as self-monitoring for symptoms or following up with a medical provider.

 

Meals and Remote Learning Plans:

Our student meal plan also begins on Monday, March 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For all arriving by car, meals will be brought out to you; please do not leave your vehicle. Individuals arriving by foot or public transportation should avoid congregating in large groups. Although we appreciate the willingness of our community to assist, we are not allowing volunteers. Please know we have limited staff. We appreciate your patience as they are dedicated and will coordinate this effort as efficiently as possible, but our goal remains to complete this while keeping potential exposure to the community as limited as possible. Details about locations and times for this distribution program can be found here or descargar en español.

As you may be aware, our remote learning option for students begins next week as well. School administrators and teachers are communicating with families about their specific remote learning plans. Information is posted to our website: www.fultonschools.org/remotelearning and may also be found on local school websites.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/14/2020 5:00:00 PM

 

The coronavirus crisis is an unprecedented community health concern; therefore, schools are developing plans to deal with these unprecedented circumstances.

As previously announced, this week Fulton County Schools (FCS) took additional steps to ensure safety for our community by closing schools immediately and until further notice.  We know this sudden closure is a disruption to your families, as it is to our employees; however, due to the information announced by Governor Kemp, this was a necessary action to help reduce potential spread of the virus.

Today, we took steps to plan for and address the goal of developing a transitional plan for learning to continue, while looking at a process for re-opening and returning to normal operations.

We have two announcements:

1) During the current break, FCS has developed a remote learning plan, aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence, that allows students to continue their classes from home while awaiting their return to a physical school environment. Plans will be implemented starting March 16, 2020 through March 20, 2020 and continued the following week if needed. Students and parents will receive more information directly from their schools and teachers about their specific remote learning plans. Additional information is available via this link.

2) The district has also created a food distribution program for families in need of nutritional support. Effective Monday, March 16, Fulton County Schools will provide an opportunity for families to pick up meals at Lake Forest Elementary School, Mimosa Elementary School, Haynes Bridge Middle School, Tri-Cities High School, Banneker High School, and Langston Hughes High School on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Click here to learn more about this program or descargar en español.

These steps are part of an ongoing process the district has implemented to deal with the ever-changing COVID-19 crisis.  As new events occur, additional government and public health announcements are made, and circumstances change, our COVID-19 Executive Task Force will continue to monitor and update FCS plans.

We ask our families to be mindful that closing schools and initiating remote learning options have been implemented to limit social contact in hopes of curtailing the spread of COVID-19.  We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we all work through this situation together.

 

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Governor Brian Kemp held a news conference this afternoon during which he announced that all school systems should consider closing for two weeks.

Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, Fulton County Schools, including all schools and administrative offices, will be closed until further notice. This action is being taken in an effort to slow the rapidly spreading COVID-19 virus. Students and all employees should not report to school or work until further notice.

We recognize the hardship this decision places on many families but believe it is in the public’s best interest if it means we can contribute to protecting our students and the community’s health and well-being.

Students will be expected to complete online learning assignments and/or work packets as assigned by their classroom teachers. School principals and teachers will be sending out additional information related to this expectation by Monday, March 16, 2020.

All school and district activities are canceled/postponed effective Friday, March 13, 2020. This includes, but is not limited to, all scholastic and athletic competitions, sports practices, music/drama/arts performances, proms, school trips and any other extra-curricular activities. Additionally, this includes outside groups that meet at our schools.

Next week we will have more information about how our continuity of learning plans will work. These plans are being finalized; however, our closing decision is being announced now so you can begin making plans for your family. The district will review conditions and publish an update each Friday by 5 p.m.

As we have mentioned in every communication update, the FCS COVID-19 website, www.fultonschools.org/coronavirus, is the official source for information about how this health issue is affecting our school system as well as our response and prevention efforts. Please continue to visit this website for updates.

Also, we ask you to continue following the COVID-19/coronavirus guidelines as shared by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that are posted on their website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html. These include monitoring your family’s health for flu-like symptoms and reaching out to your local health provider if these symptoms occur. 

Please know that this is a unique situation for Fulton County Schools, our state and our nation. We do not yet have all the answers, but are committed to communicating with you as frequently and openly as possible.

Your support and confidence during this unprecedented time is greatly appreciated.

 

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The Fulton County Board of Education will meet Thursday, March 12 at 5:30 p.m. for an emergency board meeting by phone.

All meetings of the school board are open to the public unless designated as executive session where, by law, the board must convene in private to discuss land, legal or personnel items. Any vote resulting from executive session discussion, however, will occur in an open public setting.

Those interested in participating in this meeting should call (470) 705-1712 and enter Conference ID: 908289185#.

 

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Fulton County public health officials have notified Fulton County Schools that an employee at Woodland Middle School in East Point has been confirmed to have COVID-19.

As has been previously announced this week, Woodland Middle School is currently closed and being cleaned due to potential exposure from a different employee who served both Woodland Middle School and Bear Creek Middle School.

Woodland Middle School was scheduled to re-open on March 17 based on the exposure in the first case; however, the employee was last in school on March 9  and the date to re-open is being moved to Monday, March 23, which is the same as Bear Creek Middle School. In both cases, the closure is to reduce risk of additional exposure during the 14-day waiting period recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.

Individual students and employees who are identified as having had direct and prolonged contact with the employee are being contacted by the Fulton County Public Health Department and directed to self-quarantine.

Families that have not been contacted by the county public health department are considered to have low risk of exposure and should self-monitor.  If a student or staff member feels ill or is exhibiting any flu-like symptoms, they should contact a medical professional. Fulton County Schools is finalizing a plan on how to provide continued meal service to students at Bear Creek Middle School and Woodland Middle School. Additional information will be provided to those families by the school principals by Friday.

The current case at Woodland Middle School does not pose any additional exposure to other locations and staff throughout Fulton County Schools; therefore, all other schools will re-open and continue regular schedules on Thursday, March 12, as previously announced.

Fulton County Schools will continue to exercise precautions to lessen the spread of illness by encouraging staff and students to wash their hands regularly and through cleaning and disinfecting all schools, buses and facilities.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/11/2020 12:00:00 PM

 

The coronavirus has generated both concern and awareness around good hygiene practices that help reduce the spread of potential infectious diseases like COVID-19, influenza and the common cold. In addition to frequent hand washing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that cleaning and disinfecting surfaces is an effective strategy for illness prevention.

Due to the confirmed case of COVID-19 and potential risk of others, the district wants to share its process for cleaning schools and facilities. In other words, "What does clean mean?"

 

Cleaning vs. Disinfecting

Technically, Fulton County Schools is doing more than just cleaning schools. The CDC defines "cleaning" as the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. This process does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. "Disinfecting," however, refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces, thereby lowering the risk of spreading infection. Fulton County Schools is following an advanced protocol that employs both strategies of cleaning and disinfecting to prevent, as well as reduce, the spread of illnesses.

 

What we're doing and when

During the days that Fulton County Schools is closed this week (March 10-11), custodial crews are cleaning and disinfecting every school and administrative building. Hard surfaces that are frequently touched, such as door handles, light switches, tables, chairs, student/teacher desks and countertops, are first sprayed with a hospital-grade disinfectant and then wiped clean. This disinfectant is proven to kill a variety of illness-causing bacteria, viruses, mildew and fungi and is effective against coronavirus, norovirus, canine parvovirus, and blood borne pathogens.

While schools and other buildings already receive daily cleaning and disinfecting, special attention is being given to areas where students or staff commonly gather or touch. This process will be continued to limit the spread of any germ, whether it's during cold/flu season or a unique situation like the COVID-19 virus. Bear Creek Middle School and Woodland Middle School, where the infected teacher has taught, also are undergoing a specialized cleaning and disinfection effort through a contracted service provider.

School buses are using a sprayer tool, similar to a fogger, that allows the disinfectant to be quickly applied to interior surfaces such as seats, inside paneling and windows. Drivers also will manually disinfect each row and other commonly touched areas after each morning and afternoon run.

At this link you will find photos taken yesterday of cleaning efforts at schools throughout Fulton County. This type of cleaning is happening at every school in the district with the exception of Bear Creek and Woodland Middle. The process of cleaning and disinfecting is different at these locations and at this time, we do not have visuals.

 

What's next?

Fulton County Schools strongly encourages the community to follow the CDC's guidance to frequently and properly wash hands and to stay home if feeling ill or experiencing flu-like symptoms. The district continues to follow these CDC recommendations for the routine cleaning and disinfection of community facilities, such as schools, daycares, and businesses. Families can protect their households using similar CDC recommendations for home environments.

As a reminder, the FCS COVID-19 web page, www.fultonschools.org/coronavirus, provides information and resources as they relate to Fulton County Schools as well as an archive of previous communications and updates. This website also shares the decisions made by the FCS COVID-19 Executive Task Force, which will continue to meet daily until the coronavirus is no longer considered a significant health concern.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/10/2020 5:15:00 PM

 

FCS remains focused on the safety of our schools and community.  We are working continuously with our partners, local municipalities and health departments to provide you with updates and additional information.

All Fulton County schools will be closed on Wednesday, March 11, including all scheduled activities.  Students and teachers will not report tomorrow.  However, all central office employees and school-based employees, with the exception of Bear Creek Middle and Woodland Middle Schools, who work 210 through 235 days will report to their locations as usual on Wednesday, March 11.

All Fulton County schools, with the exception of Bear Creek Middle and Woodland Middle Schools, will reopen to all students and staff on Thursday, March 12.

While the school system is closed during this period, crews are cleaning and disinfecting every school and administrative building in Fulton County Schools.  All frequently-touched hard surfaces are being wiped down with a hospital-grade disinfectant that is proven to kill bacteria and viruses.  School buses are also being cleaned and disinfected and going forward drivers will use specialized wipes to disinfect seats after completing each morning and afternoon run.

Lastly, FCS has determined that Bear Creek Middle School will be closed to students and staff until Friday, March 20, with the school reopening on Monday, March 23.  Woodland Middle School will reopen on Tuesday, March 17.  We will share the specific details with Bear Creek and Woodland middle school families.

Based upon all of this information, FCS has also decided to cancel all international travel.

We ask that our staff and families continue to follow the COVID-19 guidelines as shared by GDPH and the CDC including monitoring you and your child’s health for fever and symptoms of respiratory illness including a runny nose, cough and/or shortness of breath.  Please call your local health provider for assistance if these symptoms occur.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/9/2020 4:30:00 PM

 

On Monday, March 9, Fulton County Schools was notified by the Fulton County Department of Health that an employee was diagnosed with coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19. This employee is a teacher at Bear Creek Middle School and Woodland Middle School in the cities of Fairburn and East Point, respectively.

The employee felt ill on Friday, March 6, and was subsequently admitted to a local hospital. Fulton County Schools is not sharing which hospital and can not legally disclose the employee's health condition. The school district is in the process of providing the Department of Health with a list of students and staff members that the employee may have had contact with so that health department staff can follow up.

Based on concerns of possible exposure, the schools were immediately dismissed today and all students and staff were sent home. Creekside High School also has been closed due to its close proximity to Bear Creek Middle School and the sharing of several staff members between the schools. A number of families also have students who attend both schools.Tomorrow, March 10, the entire school system - all FCS schools and administrative offices - will be closed. This allows for cleaning and disinfection of all schools as well as for district officials to conduct a risk assessment for the entire school system. A decision about the length of the closing and next steps will be announced tomorrow by 5 p.m.

The district will continue to post updates on its COVID-19 website and will communicate additional information with families and employees as it becomes available.

Meanwhile, Fulton County Schools asks that all stakeholders - students, employees, parents and community members - follow COVID-19 guidance as emphasized by local, state and national health care providers.

Download the press release here.

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/9/2020 3:30:00 PM

 

Our school system has been alerted by public health officials of a confirmed employee coronavirus case within our district.  The employee is currently being treated at a local hospital.  We are working with public health officials to determine the impact to our local schools and community.  Based on this concern, all schools and offices will be closed on Tuesday, March 10, with additional closures communicated as determined.  This closure will allow us to clean and sanitize affected schools as well as share additional details of our ongoing plan.  Updates regarding this concern will be shared via additional emails and the district website.

Our district is implementing aspects of our pandemic plan for students, employees and families as follows:

• Identification and Notification of affected schools, families and employees
• School/building closures will be communicated
• Testing will performed in coordination with the CDC and Health Department
• Safety Precautions including cleaning and sanitizing 

Live updates will be posted to our website regularly. 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/6/2020 4:00:00 PM

As the second (and final) part of our email series, "Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource," we are sharing other tips curated by the National Association of School Psychologists and the National Association of School Nurses.

The entire resource is posted here if you want to review the information again.

Although this is the last segment in this informational series, our communications on COVID-19 will continue as long as it is considered a national health concern. Other resources also are posted to this FCS COVID-19 web page.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/5/2020 4:00:00 PM

When it comes to situations with unknown or uncertain factors, like COVID-19 (coronavirus), children can be frightened by what they hear from their classmates or what they see on the news. They often look to the adults in their lives for reassurance or how to react.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), in collaboration with the National Association of School Nurses (NASN), has pulled together information to help parents explain this health situation in an age-appropriate way.

This is a lengthy resource, so we are breaking it into two parts to send to our parents by email over the next several days. If you have questions about what you’ve read or how you can help your child further, please reach out to your school leaders or other trusted health partners.

If you want to read ahead, the entire NASP/NASN resource is posted here.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/4/2020 4:00:00 PM

Dr. Mike Looney, superintendent of Fulton County Schools (FCS), in collaboration with the Fulton County School Board (Board) is implementing proactive measures to minimize risk to students, employees, and families relating to the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19.

"I'm pleased with our district's collaborative efforts with state and county public health officials to keep our schools safe," said Looney. "These steps today are only part of many ongoing actions the district will take to proactively combat the spread of the coronavirus."

The district this week announced the formation of a cross-functional Executive Task Force (ETF) of senior district leaders to monitor and oversee FCS's ongoing response to the coronavirus.

The ETF will direct these proactive measures by providing guidance on school attendance, school cleaning, student enrollment, student travel and re-entry, employee travel and re-entry, employee attendance, and facility rental. FCS remains in close communication with the Fulton County Board of Health and other public health officials to make informed operational decisions. FCS is committed to keeping our students, employees, and families safe and informed with the most current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

A full list of guidance provided to schools can be reviewed here.

The district will continue to update information on its website. Please visit this webpage frequently for up to date information.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/3/2020 5:00:00 PM

By now you may have heard that there are two cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Fulton County. We can confirm that these cases do not include students or employees of our school system.

However, considering the virus is now confirmed in our county, we are taking additional steps to minimize risk to our students and staff. Our school district is following the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) guidance to K-12 schools, which includes making sure that our emergency operations plans are reviewed and up-to-date and that there is routine environmental cleaning. FCS uses cleaning products that have been verified by the manufacturer to kill coronavirus and other viruses.

Our schools will continue to operate on a normal schedule; however, out of an abundance of caution we are developing a plan to limit "non-essential" school activities and travel to lessen the risk of exposure. More information and guidance will be shared with our school communities by 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, 2020.

The FCS COVID-19 Executive Task Force, announced yesterday by Superintendent Mike Looney, is meeting on a daily basis to review this ever-evolving situation. Updates will be posted here on our website. Please share this page with others: www.fultonschools.org/coronavirus.

We appreciate your patience as we work with the Governor, state and county governments, and public health officials. Thank you for continuing to support our district's effort and Board of Education's commitment to keep students and staff safe in Fulton County Schools.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 3/2/2020 6:00:00 PM

As part of our continued efforts to ensure the health and well-being of our school community, FCS Superintendent Mike Looney established a COVID-19 Executive Task Force. This group is dedicated to the daily monitoring and response to the potential impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on our school district. In addition, FCS has launched this web page with information on the COVID-19 virus - www.fultonschools.org/coronavirus - and will post updates here when new information is available.

As COVID-19 is an evolving world health scenario, we encourage you to visit this web page for official updates from health organizations as well as our school system's response and advisories. For your convenience, we are spotlighting the web links below from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH). These are available on the FCS COVID-19 web page with other helpful resources from other local, state, and federal agencies.

• How to prepare and take action for COVID-19 (Centers for Disease Control)
• Facts about the Coronavirus (Centers for Disease Control)
• DPH Preparations for Potential Spread of COVID-19 (Georgia Department of Public Health)

Superintendent Looney and other district leaders are working to address many questions from parents and staff. Further information will be posted on this website as needed, so we encourage you to check back regularly.

To reiterate what we know at this time, there are zero confirmed COVID-19 cases in Georgia or Fulton County; however, preparedness is one of our best weapons against the spread of illness. We also encourage all students and employees to continue following healthy hygiene practices, such as proper handwashing, and to reach out to public health officials if you feel ill.

 

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Posted by FCS Communications Dept. on 2/27/2020 11:00:00 AM

Fulton County Schools is aware of the statements made by the CDC Tuesday regarding the potential threat of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the United States. As we are updated by the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH), we will continue to follow the lead of local, state, and federal agencies.  The GDPH has provided us with information via this link for you.

Please be aware that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is asking school officials, as well as childcare centers and workplaces, to prepare for a possible outbreak. At this time, there are no confirmed cases in Fulton County, or Georgia. FCS is working closely with local and state health officials in the event cases progress to our region. Additionally, in response to the CDC's public comments that were recently shared in the media, we wanted to provide information about our coronavirus (COVID-19) planning.

• We are reinforcing the importance of healthy hygiene with our students and employees
• Should a confirmed case occur, we will immediately inform our school community
• FCS has a plan to address a potential pandemic, including a Continuity of Learning component
• In the event of a school closing, we can convert instruction to a digital format to ensure continuation of instruction

Currently, we are reviewing our existing pandemic plan and making the necessary revisions to respond to COVID-19 scenarios. The plan is fluid and sections will be updated as new information becomes available. FCS's response plan addresses the specific activities necessary to keep schools open and operating while providing a clean and safe environment during an outbreak and the essential functions that must be performed by FCS, if schools are closed. While the full impact of an outbreak cannot be predicted, planning for operations under such conditions can lessen the impact of the event on our students, staff, facilities and mission. The health and safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.

As a reminder, common cold and flu viruses are not unusual during the winter season. Precautions are recommended and we ask that everyone do their part to stay healthy: wash hands frequently, monitor your health, and stay home when ill.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

https://www.fultonschools.org/COVID19

 

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