Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) posted a YouTube video Friday to clear up “rumors” about fall reopening.
“We’re hearing lots of rumors out there about what’s happening and we want to make sure that you know the truth from MCPS directly,” said MCPS Spokesperson Derek Turner in the video.
We’ve heard from many of you and understand you have many questions and concerns about fall recovery. Please watch this important video update from our Superintendent for the most accurate and up-to-date information on our plans: https://t.co/Vjn2EupWCx
— MCPS (@MCPS) July 17, 2020
The video addressed questions like who would be cleaning classrooms and how many masks would be distributed to staff members. Also on Friday, the Board of Education put out a statement clarifying that they want what is best for the Montgomery County community.
“Any decision to move from a virtual environment will be informed by science and determined by the public health conditions in Montgomery County and with the advice and counsel of public health experts,” the statement reads.
Statement from the Montgomery County Board of Education pic.twitter.com/iFIoMZxbaw
— Moco BOE (@mocoboe) July 17, 2020
These releases from MCPS come after a statement from the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA) that said MCPS’ plan for the fall is “wholly inadequate to protect the health and safety of students and staff.” It addresses issues that MCPS countered in its YouTube video, like how many masks will be distributed to staff and students when they return to school buildings.
“MCPS is proposing supplying students and staff with two cloth masks for the entire school year. Disposable masks will be available if students or staff forget their mask or soil it, but only as long as supplies are available. The cloth masks must be cleaned after each use, but there is no way for teachers to determine whether a mask has been washed,” the statement reads.
In its YouTube video, MCPS clarified its plan.
“We are purchasing as much as possible. We know we will need a lot of inventory to see us through the year, and will continue that purchasing,” said Essie McGuire, associate superintendent of operations.
