Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is setting up new programs to help students and families overcome obstacles during remote learning. They're partnering with local groups to offer support centers for students throughout the county.
The school board's COVID-19 Special Committee provided more details about the new remote learning centers during its meeting on Thursday evening.
Thirty sites are being planned. The centers will be located in places like churches and some local YMCAs. It's part of the district's CARES Team project.
The goal is to provide a safe and reliable place for students who have trouble connecting to the Internet, have language barriers, or who don't have an adult who can assist them at home during the school day. A potential cost for the service hasn't been finalized.
“We do ask that families make a reservation because what we don't want happening is we don't want 50 to 60 students showing up for a place that can only accommodate 15 people,” says Michael Pesce, director of social work for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.
The school system says it's looking for more community partners for these remote sites as well as community volunteers. Volunteers must pass a background check and receive training.
District leaders are also setting up CARES Teams in schools. Teachers will help identify a student who is struggling and support staff will help find solutions to help them overcome barriers they're experiencing. A community CARES Team will also be on the ground to help connect families to resources.
The first day of remote learning for students is on Monday, August 17.
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