SCHOOL UPDATE FROM SUPT. MICHAEL FORD:

1)  After several meetings with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials and others I am proposing at tomorrow’s special called school board meeting that we start school 15 minutes later and dismiss school 15 minutes later. This is in an effort to help reduce congestion along Hwy 127. Representatives from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet are also talking with local industry asking that they too adjust their times. For example:  If some of the local industries could start earlier and dismiss at 2:15 that would give 30 minutes for their traffic to clear Hwy. 127 before we dismissed at RCMS/RCHS at 2:45 PM. I did not want tomorrow’s board meeting to be the first that everyone heard of this. I am happy for the school district to play a part in helping to make Hwy 127 safer for everyone during peak traffic hours. We plan for school doors to open 30 minute prior to the start of school. 

2)  As of now, the only mask requirement is on school buses (regardless of vaccination status).  I often am asked about the COVID-19 vaccine and I would encourage anyone age 12+ not vaccinated to be vaccinated and/or wear a mask. I realize that is a personal decision for each individual to make and I respect that. The situation is fluid and Russell County Schools will continue to monitor the situation. Again, unvaccinated individuals (students and employees) are not required to wear masks except on school buses (everyone is required to on school buses) but are encouraged to.  

3) I am pleased to report that in consultation with the Lake Cumberland District Health Department and our partnership with Cumberland Family Medical our plan does include a "test to stay" option in that students or employees that have had a + COVID-19 exposure do NOT have to automatically quarantine (go home) if they receive a negative COVID-19 test each day at school and are not exhibiting any symptoms.  The "test to stay" is of course voluntary and parents/guardians will need to provide consent (permission) but it is a great option to keep students in school.  

Please know that Russell County Schools is committed to starting in-person school on August 18 (3 weeks from today) and to stay in-person.  

Thank you for all of your support and understanding, it is appreciated!

God Bless,

Michael A. Ford, Superintendent
Russell County Schools