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Davie County Schools is among a handful of districts that have been balancing the everyday rigors of in-person and remote learning since Aug. 17.

While students and staff are doing remarkably well, Davie County Schools refuses to accept that this is the new normal, said Jeff Wallace, superintendent.

The leadership team is eager to resume classes as they once were and continues looking forward, taking advantage of new opportunities for the safest environment possible in schools. One important step in this effort is to ensure vaccines are available for all employees of Davie County Schools, he said.

The schools have partnered with Davie County Health and Human Services Director, Suzanne Wright, to secure vaccines for Davie County Schools employees.

“This is the next step our community is taking for a healthier future,” said Superintendent Jeff Wallace. “As one of the county’s largest employers, we have an obligation to our staff, students and community to put forth the needed effort to ensure vaccines are available for our employees. We are offering vaccines for safer, healthier schools and communities.”

Davie County Schools and Davie County Department of Health and Human Services will be vaccinating employees on Wednesday, Jan. 27, adding to the long list of community members who have already been vaccinated. The second vaccine for employees will be on Friday, February 19. Given the concerns for possible side effects with the second vaccine, Friday, Feb. 19 will be a remote learning day for students, with more communications to come for families.

“Our staff has been working harder than ever,” said Wallace. “Teachers, custodians, nurses, bus drivers, administration and support staff; I am proud of our hard-working staff. They are all contributing their talents and expertise to the benefit of our children. We’ve proven that we can do anything when we lean on one another and work together. I can’t tell them enough how much I appreciate what they do every day.”

Since the pandemic began, the DCS School Nutrition staff has served approximately 4,500 meals a day to children. More than 1,000 devices have been provided for students and Wi-Fi connection points and community partnerships are increasing internet accessibility.

Safety protocols and health screenings continue in all schools every day. While academic performance continues to be a challenge for school districts around the state, Davie County Schools is dedicated to sharing curriculum, mental health, and safety resources with families, including weekly updates on COVID cases in schools.

“We are making a strong effort to dot our I’s and cross our T’s, making sure we are doing everything we possibly can for our students, staff and families,” said Wallace. “We are committed to their success and that starts with a healthy, safe, and secure learning and working environment.”