In a video released by the Kearney School District, Superintendent Dr. Matthew Miller announced the district’s plan for returning to school and a delayed start date.

“Throughout the pandemic, KSD has continued to plan and adjust and plan and adjust for a safe return to school,” Dr. Miller stated. “Recently, we have had to quickly shift from being prepared to start at full capacity on August 24th, to delaying the start of school back to September 8th.”

In a special board meeting on August 3rd, the Board approved a revised school calendar. This decision was made based upon guidance from the Clay County Public Health Center (CCPHC). The CCPHC is hopeful that the delayed start will allow for the mask mandate to have an impact on the number of cases and allow for them to increase capacity to test and contact trace.

Highlights of the new 2020-2021 calendar:

● Moved first day of school from August 24 to September 8

● Changed 2 early release days and 1 half day to full days

● Changed 1 half day to early release (last day of school)

● Changed 1 PD day to regular in-session

● Extension of the school calendar from May 25 to May 26

● Staff reports as previously scheduled

● The first 6 inclement weather days will be online learning for all students

Dr. Miller went on to say that if COVID-19 cases in the community continue to rise, the CCPHC may mandate the school district to convert to all on-line learning. The school district is prepared to offer the on-line program to every student through KSD Connect if necessary.

You can get further details from the district and view the full video from Dr. Miller here.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story