School District 2 planning on students returning to school

If school was to start immediately, students in Sheridan County School District 2 would return to classes in their school buildings across Sheridan and Story – although with modifications.

That’s according to a plan approved by District 2 trustees earlier this week.

The plan, in fact, consists of three options, with the first being for students to return to in-person classes in the schools. But District 2 Superintendent Craig Dougherty said there are two more options available, depending on circumstances.

The other options include a hybrid model in which online learning would continue for some students, but buildings would be open for some students.

Under the third option, schools would not reopen and all learning would continue online.

However, Dougherty said, the option the district is planning to pursue, unless required by a changing COVID-19 situation, is for all schools to open and students return to classes on Aug. 24.

Dougherty said the plan follows recommendations of county and state health officials. For example, the plan would require not only that staff and students wear masks when entering and exiting their schools, but parents, siblings and guests entering a school must also wear masks. Students and staff riding buses will also be required to wear masks.

Dougherty said County Health Officer Dr. Ian Hunter has vetted and approved the plan. Following the board of trustees’ approval, the plan has been submitted to the Wyoming Department of Education for the state’s approval.