The Meridian Public-School District plans for students return to campus Jan. 11

The Meridian Public-School District has announced that students in the district will be returning back to on-campus learning following winter break, after switching students in the district to virtual learning in November, due to COVID-19 concerns.

Students in the Meridian Public-School District will begin the second semester of school still learning virtually from January 5-8, but are expected to return to on-campus learning the next week, on Monday, January 11.

Matt Davis, the public relations director for the Meridian Public-School District shared that the week of January 5, when students will still be learning virtually, will be used to ensure that campuses will be prepared for students return.

“We believe that that’s going to be the best way for staff and students to return safely. You know, during that week, we’re going to be going and making sure that the PPE levels are adequate at each school. That any schools that might need additional PPE, make sure to replenish the stock at those schools,” said Matt Davis.

There will still be an opportunity for students to remain on a virtual learning path, if their parents would like them to do so; if the student has a pre-existing condition or is passing their classes.

Davis offered guidance to parents, students, and staff, encouraging them to follow the CDC’s COVID-19 guidelines over the winter break, hoping to ensure students a safe return to campus for the second semester of the school year.

“As they’re out on the break,-- you know, I know it will be hard, because it’s the holidays, but try not to gather in large groups. You know, make sure that if you do have to go out, you’re wearing a mask, and you make sure that you’re social distancing them. You know that way that’s going to be the best way we can return safely in January,” said Davis.

The Meridian Public-School District’s plans for students return to on-campus learning on January 11, following winter break are subject to change, relying on orders from the Governor and guidance from the Mississippi State Department of Health.