Despite the rallies for public schools in Prince William County to remain in a virtual learning environment, last night the School Board informed Superintendent Steven Walts that he had the go-ahead for implementing a back-to-school plan. Beginning in November, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students will return to the classroom, with Grades 1-3 returning in December and January. First grade will return to class on December 1, with Second & Third grades on January 13. The other grades will be gradually phased in, provided that the schools can remain in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control guidelines. However, parents and guardians may choose for virtual-only options as needed.

After the hearing, the Prince William Educational Association released a statement, per President Maggie Hansford. “PWEA thanks the Board and Division for prioritizing safety, student success, and staff workloads as we move to a staged re-opening in the second quarter. We look forward to continuing our work with the division. Our staff continues to ask to be included in the decision-making process, and for increased transparency and communication from the division. Teachers are the backbone of Prince William County Schools and they are working hard to ensure every child has the best possible education, virtually or in person.”

Whether or not this phase-in will remain is a question that only time can answer, but for now, Prince William County schools prepare to return to some form of normalcy.