Coronavirus expected to impact schools for 2 to 3 years

Coronavirus expected to impact schools for 2 to 3 years

Schools across alabama will see the impact of the coronavirus well beyond this upcoming school year.

That's according to state superintendent doctor eric mackey.

He says it'll take two to three years before schools get past the impact of the pandemic!

Waay 31's ashley carter asked the state how it's helping local districts get through this difficult time.

Ashley: "state superintendent dr. eric mackey says nobody can accurately say how long the impacts of the coronavirus will last, but the state is prepared to help local districts out for the long run as they transition through this difficult time."

Dr. eric mackey, alabama state superintendent: "very different situations across different communities in the state and so we have to make sure that our response is localized enough that we're doing what is the best for that community."

Doctor eric mackey - the state superintendent - says schools across alabama could face a variety of obstacles over the next few years, live keeping facilities clean ... managing exposure from sick teachers and students - and adjusting to the blended learning models.

He says they're already trying to help districts prepare for every possible scenario.

Dr. eric mackey, alabama state superintendent: "there have been questions about what do we do if and so we're answering those a few at a time.

We have three webinars over the next few days to help local principals and curriculum directors fill in their understanding so they can best help make the road map happen on the ground."

Doctor mackey says he recognizes the difficulties parents will have to consider when it comes to sending their children back to school or using the remote learning options.

But he says he hopes they find comfort in knowing local schools are doing whatever it takes to make this transitional period as easy as possible....and the state is offering guidance in any way they can.

Dr. eric mackey, alabama state superintendent: "as parents it is a tough time.

It's tough on parents, it's tough on students, it's tough on teachers but those teachers care deeply about the children that come in their classrooms they cared deeply about those children before covid and they still do now."

In madison co ashley c waay 31 news