PRC schools to go virtual in wake of COVID-19 numbers escalating

The Pearl River County School Board voted to move the school into virtual

instruction only for learning during its second special board meeting of the week.

Superintendent Alan Lumpkin pointed out the rapid pace the number of cases is growing at rate that the school district has to take action to slow down the spread of the Coronavirus.

The action by the board came due the rising COVID related numbers presented Lumpkin during the meeting.

Lumpkin reported the following data:

Positive COVID test results with employees:

· Elementary School 9

· Middle School 4

· High School 3

· Endeavor School 1

COVID related absences for employees on Thursday:

· Elementary School 24

· Middle School 10

· High School 9

· Endeavor School 2

Positive COVID Test results for students: 101 total

· Elementary 32

· Middle 24

· High School 45

· Endeavor 0

District COVID Positive Totals:

· Employees 10

o Thursday at 2:00 p.m. the number was up to 17

· Students 45

o Thursday at 2:00 p.m. 101

Students currently quarantined:

· Elementary School 150

· Middle School 199

· High School 272

· Endeavor School 3

Lumpkin pointed out the rapid pace the number of cases is growing at rate that the school district has to take action to slow down the spread of the Coronavirus.

After two failed motions on the dates to implement the move to virtual learning, the board finally agreed to a motion to go into virtual learning mode officially on Monday August 16 until August 27th. The board will meet on August 25 to evaluate the status at that time to see if an extension is necessary.