While teachers + some students may have already returned to school, today is the first official day of class for Polk County Public Schools (PCPS). Whether in-person or online, today will undoubtedly look different compared to prior “first days.” So let’s take a look at what parents, students, volunteers + teachers in Polk can expect this year – plus a few resources to help you get started on the right foot.

🦠 COVID-19: Polk County Public Schools will send a mass message in the event of a confirmed positive COVID-19 case at schools. PCPS plans to adhere to laws that prohibit the release of confidential information. The message will be sent via the district’s automated telephone and email system to parents + employees. Find more safety precautions on sanitation + face coverings.

💻 Tech: A new tech support hotline has been set up to assist families + teachers that face technical issues with online learning. The hotline (863.733.033) is open Mon.-Fri., from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

🏈 WaterCooler: PCPS Health and Physical Education Specialist Kathleen Wright shares insights on how students, both on campus and e-learning, can continue to stay healthy through physical activity – including a reduction in class sizes + individual athletic activities.

🎨 Arts: Students can still express creative pursuits through the arts this year, according to PCPS Fine Arts Director Beth Cummings. While traditional public performances may be postponed, students will still hone their musical + creative skills in alternate ways. Additionally, some other changes include: singing to take place outside + the limiting of shared art supplies.

🤝🏼 Cause: Volunteers will not be allowed on school campuses for (at least) the first nine weeks of the school year in order to minimize student and staff exposure to COVID-19. The visitation restrictions on school campuses will only allow essential visitors on-site, but schools are encouraged to find virtual ways for volunteers to stay involved.

🚌 Transportation: Polk County Public Schools transportation call center is now operating for the 2020-2021 school year. Parents with transportation-related questions can call 863.534.7300 from now until Sept. 4 + weekdays from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.

🍴Dish: Polk County Public Schools will be providing free breakfast + lunch to all on-campus students + will provide meals for pick up for online students taking courses through their enrolled schools (Polk Virtual Schools students are ineligible).

Click here for more PCPS updates.

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