Savannah-Chatham County Public School System

SCCPSS Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance and Updates

Published on: 3/10/2020

​​​​​​​​​​​​UPDATED 5/6/2020:

Superintendent Dr. Ann Levett provided an operational update for the district at the April 8th meeting of the Board of Education.  Find the complete presentation here​.

UPDATED 4/23/2020:

SCCPSS Meal Plan Moves to Once a Week Delivery for the Remainder of the School Year

​The SCCPSS Meal Delivery Plan continues while schools are closed.  Beginning the week of April 27th, SCCPSS will move to a once a week delivery plan.  Each week the delivery schedule may be adjusted to avoid deliveries on a day when inclement weather is expected.  Monitor the District’s website for regular updates.

For the week of April 27th, meals will be distributed on Tuesday, April 28th at more than 400 bus stops across the county.  On that day, students will receive five days of meals – a breakfast and a lunch for Tuesday through Monday excluding the weekend. The change to a once a week delivery is being made based on staffing and efficiency.  Meals provided have a shelf life and should be stored appropriately.

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need. 

Visit this link at SCCPSS.com for a complete list of meal delivery locations and times. 

Visit this link for next week’s delivery schedule at a glance.

Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.

UPDATED 4/16/2020:

​**This event is by invitation only. No vehicles will be permitted that do not contain a graduate.**

​​​SCCPSS Plans to Celebrate 2020 Graduates with Curbside Distribution of Caps, Gowns and Regalia

As we look to the final weeks of the SCCPSS school year, one of the district’s priorities is to celebrate our high school seniors as they achieve their academic goals and graduate.  The COVID -19 pandemic has created a shift in the way we operate, resulting in a very different look from the traditional classroom, as well as “end of year” recognition.  Still, while we may be apart, we believe it is important to recognize the graduates of the Class of 2020.

SCCPSS is planning a “Celebration of the Graduates of 2020” that will offer a safe, secure environment aligned to the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  We will celebrate our graduates with the distribution of their caps, gowns, special awards, and graduation regalia.  This distribution will be done in a curbside, drive up setting and will offer the opportunity to show our students how much we appreciate their hard work and commitment to education.  Please find a list of requirements for participation below.

Diplomas and diploma covers will not be distributed at this venue.  All diplomas will be mailed separately.  We hope to see each senior in the parade of cars for the curbside pickup to receive their cap, gown, honor cords, and a very special gift from the Superintendent of Schools. Participants are encouraged to decorate vehicles to show school pride and support for the graduates! 

In addition, SCCPSS is currently in the planning stages of a “virtual” graduation ceremony that families can view safely from the comfort of their home alongside graduates. More information on the broadcast schedule will be released soon. Virtual ceremonies will take place during the month of May and will be available for viewing online at SCCPSS.COM.

Please see the schedule of Curbside Distribution Ceremonies below:

April 27, 2020

Savannah Arts Academy - 8:00-9:30 AM 

Woodville Tompkins – 8:00-9:30 AM 

Sol C. Johnson – 12:00-1:30 PM 

Beach– 12:00-1:30 PM

April 28, 2020 

New Hampstead – 8:00-10:30 AM 

H.V. Jenkins – 1:00-2:30 PM 

Windsor Forest – 1:00-2:30 PM

April 29. 2020

Groves – 8:00-9:00 AM 

Savannah High - 11:00-12:00 PM 

Savannah Early College – 11:00-12:00 PM 

Islands – 12:00-1:30 PM

SCCPSS CURBSIDE GRADUATION REGALIA DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS

Large numbers are not permitted in vehicles: Vehicles occupancy is limited to four (4) individuals. The use of a Party Bus or Limousine is discouraged. SCCPSS will only serve vehicles containing no more than four (4) occupants (2020 Graduate and up to 3 guests).

Graduate Identification: Your graduate's name must be clearly displayed in your vehicle and printed in large, clear, understandable letters (see GRAD NAME DISPLAY SAMPLE COPY.pdf).

**No vehicles will be permitted that do not contain a graduate.**

SAFETY GUIDELINES - TO ENSURE ALL SAFETY PROTOCOLS AND CDC GUIDELINES ARE ENFORCED, THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES MUST BE FOLLOWED:

  • Distribution of Graduation Caps, Gowns, and Regalia will be offered in a drive through, curbside format.
  • Vehicles will be directed through a pre-designated route at the school. Follow the directions of Campus Police and school staff as you enter school grounds.
  • Stay in your vehicle at all times.
  • No more than 4 occupants per vehicle.
  • Display the NAME OF YOUR GRADUATE prominently in the windshield of your vehicle.
  • Arrive on the designated date and designated window of time for pick up.

Those who do not follow the guidelines identified above will be directed to exit the campus​

SCCPSS Meal Delivery Schedule Now Available for the Week of April 20-24, 2020

​The SCCPSS Meal Delivery Plan continues while schools are closed.  Each week the delivery schedule may be adjusted to avoid deliveries on days when inclement weather is expected.  Monitor the District’s website for regular updates.

For the week of April 20th, meals will be distributed on Tuesday and Thursday only. Families will be able to receive meals at more than 400 bus stops across the county.  On Tuesday, April 21st, students will be given meals for both Tuesday and Wednesday.  On Thursday, April 23rd, students will receive meals for Thursday, Friday, and Monday.  Buses will not run on Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need.  A parent or guardian of an SCCPSS student may pick up meals at any of the sites to take home to their children.

Visit this link for an updated and complete list of meal delivery locations and times.  

Visit this link for next week's meal delivery schedule at a glance.
​​Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.​


 

UPDATED 4/13/2020:

Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools Launches SCCPSS-TV

Savannah-Chatham County Public School students (SCCPSS) can now look for lessons from some of their favorite teachers on Comcast Channel 195. The new SCCPSS-TV debuted at 8am Monday, April 13, 2020. 

The channel will enable students to connect with the classroom by viewing lessons at all grade levels presented by instructors from across the district.  As SCCPSS works to build content, the community will soon have the opportunity to view re-broadcasts of meetings of the Board of Education, learn more about activities and programs in our schools, and meet some of those who work to build student achievement throughout the district.

“SCCPSS is excited to launch this new partnership with Comcast and looks forward to providing our students and families access to education and enrichment through the television screen,” said SCCPSS Superintendent Dr. Ann Levett. “In this challenging time of school closures necessitated by the COVID-19 virus, the new SCCPSS-TV is a wonderful opportunity to keep an important connection to learning for our students while they are away from the classroom.  We appreciate our partnership with Comcast and hope to continue building this relationship in ways that benefit our community now and in the future.”

​“We are proud to partner with the Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools to keep students connected to their schoolwork during this difficult time,” said Jason Gumbs, Comcast’s Regional SVP. “Since this crisis began, we have been keenly focused on keeping students and their families connected to the power of the Internet in Savannah and across the country.”


UPDATED 4/9/2020:

SCCPSS Meal Delivery Schedule for the Week of April 13-17, 2020 Now Available

The SCCPSS Meal Delivery Plan continues while schools are closed.  Each week the delivery schedule may be adjusted to avoid deliveries on days when inclement weather is expected.  Monitor the District’s website for regular updates.

For the week of April 13th, meals will be distributed on Tuesday and Thursday only. Families will be able to receive meals at more than 400 bus stops across the county.  On Tuesday, April 14th, students will be given meals for both Tuesday and Wednesday.  On Thursday, April 16th, students will receive meals for Thursday, Friday, and Monday.  Buses will not run on Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need.  A parent or guardian of an SCCPSS student may pick up meals at any of the sites to take home to their children.

Visit this link for an updated and complete list of meal delivery locations and times.  

Visit this link for next week's meal delivery schedule at a glance.
​​Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.


UPDATED 4/8/2020

Superintendent Dr. Ann Levett provided an operational update for the district at the April 8th meeting of the Board of Education.  Find the complete presentation here​.


UPDATED 4/3/2020:

Independent Learning Plan for the Remainder of the 2019-20 School Year

As a result of our extended emergency school closure, students will continue their learning through Independent Learning Days. 

Teachers will continue to provide assignments via electronic platforms like Google Classroom, Zoom, or others they may have used with their students this year. Check with your child’s teacher for details if you aren’t sure how to connect with them.

If digital access is not available at home, new Independent Learning Packets will be available for pick-up at the entrance of each Elementary, K8, and Middle school site beginning at Noon on Monday, April 6 through Friday, April 10. After April 10th, packets may be picked up outside the Student and Family Services Center located at the Early Learning Center at Formey School at 400 East Broad Street in Savannah. In addition, the Independent learning packets will be available on SCCPSS.com beginning Monday, April 6. Simply click the Independent Learning button on the front page of the site.

Each printed Independent Learning Packet contains a weekly schedule for work completion through the remainder of the school year. Assignment return will be established between the parent and teacher for the purpose of grading.

Teachers will continue to be available to all students and parents for virtual "office hours" during which time they will provide instruction, offer guidance on instructional tasks, and be available to answer questions. Teachers will notify parents of the specific times for their virtual office hours. If you are unable to reach your child’s teacher, please contact your child’s principal by email.

A Statement from the Superintendent on Graduations for the Class of 2020

Unfortunately, the traditional SCCPSS graduation ceremonies, typically held at the Savannah Civic Center, is very unlikely this year due to the predicted lingering dangers of exposure to COVID-19 and current prohibitions against the gathering of large crowds in public venues.  Assuming this situation continues into mid-May, conversations are in progress to arrange a unique opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2020. More information on graduation 2020 will be available soon. Thanks so much for your continued patience and support. Stay safe!

​UPDATED 4/2/2020:

​​​​SCCPSS Meal Delivery Schedule for the Week of April 6th-10th Now Available

The SCCPSS Meal Delivery Plan continues while schools are closed.  Each week the delivery schedule may be adjusted to avoid deliveries on days when inclement weather is expected.  Monitor the District’s website for regular updates.

For the week of April 6th, meals will be distributed on Tuesday and Thursday only. Families will be able to receive meals at more than 400 bus stops across the county.  On Tuesday, April 7th, students will be given meals for both Tuesday and Wednesday.  On Thursday, April 9th, students will receive meals for Thursday, Friday, and Monday.  Buses will not run on Wednesday or Friday.

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need. 

Visit this link for an updated and complete list of meal delivery locations and times.  

Visit this link for next week's meal delivery schedule at a glance.

​​Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591. ​

UPDATED 4/1/2020:

Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools to Remain Closed Through the End of the 2019-20 School Year​

Today, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued an Executive Order calling for Public Schools in the state to remain closed for in-person instruction through the end of this school year.  As a result, SCCPSS schools will now remain closed and students will continue Independent Learning through the scheduled end of the school year on May 15, 2020.


More information regarding the continuation of Independent Learning will be communicated in the coming days.  While all school buildings remain closed, the District’s Central Office and other administrative facilities are open to the public by appointment only for essential business.  Additional information will be provided to our families through the usual parent notification calls and emails, district social media accounts, SCCPSS.com, and local media. 

Earlier this month, Governor Brian Kemp placed Georgia under a State of Emergency due to the spread of Coronavirus. The school District continues to maintain regular contact with the Georgia Department of Public Health, Chatham County Health Department, and the Chatham Emergency Management Agency, to monitor Coronavirus impacts in our area. 

 

Once again, all Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools will remain closed through the end of this school year by order of the Governor.  Please make sure to check our website – www.sccpss.com, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for further updates.

Please read this Letter from the Superintendent​ regarding the school closure.

UPDATED:  3/30/2020:

WSAV - Teacher Mini- Lessons scheduled to start tomorrow (March 31)!

Watch WSAV’s The Bridge weekdays at 11:30am to see SCCPSS teachers delivering instruction to students while they are learning at home!  Our teachers are engaging students through a variety of channels and we are pleased that WSAV has offered these mini-lessons for our students. 

Watch for Nancy Barton, Jaime McGrath and Bynikini Frazier this week! 

It all starts Tuesday, March 31st on WSAV-TV!

More on The Bridge: https://www.wsav.com/shows/the-bridge/

----------

Parents May Now Pick Up Meals Without the SCCPSS Student Being Present

Reminder for our Families:

Our Meal Delivery Program continues this week.  School Buses will be operating throughout the community and will deliver meals at over 400 stops across the county.  This week Buses ran today - Monday,  and will run Tuesday, and Thursday.  On Tuesday, March 31st, students will be given meals for both Tuesday and Wednesday.  On Thursday, April 2nd, students will receive meals for Thursday, Friday, and Monday.  Buses will not run on Wednesday or Friday.

In addition to the updated schedule for the week, parents can find an updated route listing on SCCPSS.com.  Some new stops have been added based on feedback from our families.  Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time. 

Remember:

  • Our meals are only available to children 18 years old or younger.  
  • Families are welcome at any of our meal distribution stops, regardless of your specific school attendance zone. 
NEW!! A parent or guardian of an SCCPSS student may pick up at any route site to take meals home to their children.  You must be a parent or guardian of an SCCPSS student to receive a meal.

Visit this link at SCCPSS.com for a complete list of meal delivery locations and times. 
For any questions or concerns about the Meal Distribution Program, families should call the District's Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.

​​​UPDATED 3/27/2020:

SCCPSS Meal Delivery Schedule for the Week of March 30th and Updated Routes Available

The SCCPSS Meal Delivery Plan continues while schools are closed.  Each week the delivery schedule may be adjusted to avoid deliveries on days when inclement weather is expected.  Monitor the District’s website for regular updates.

For the week of March 30, 2020, meals will be distributed on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Families will be able to receive meals at more than 400 bus stops across the county.  On Tuesday, March 31st, students will be given meals for both Tuesday and Wednesday.  On Thursday, April 2nd, students will receive meals for Thursday, Friday, and Monday.  Buses will not run on Wednesday or Friday.

In addition to the updated schedule for next week, parents can find an updated route listing on SCCPSS.com.  Some new stops have been added based on feedback from our families.  While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need. 

Visit this link for a complete list of meal delivery locations and times.​

Visit this link for a schedule of meal delivery days at a glance.

​​Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.

UPDATED 3/26/2020:

Governor Issues Executive Order Keeping All Public Schools Closed Through April 24th

Based on the Executive Order issued by Governor Kemp calling for the extension of the closure of all public schools in Georgia, SCCPSS announces a closure beyond the current announced return dates of April 1st for school-based staff and April 2nd for students. All SCCPSS schools will now remain closed through April 24, 2020. 

 

More information regarding the return date for staff and students and continued plans for Independent Learning and meal delivery will be communicated in the coming days.  While all school buildings remain closed, the District’s Central Office and other administrative facilities are open to the public by appointment only for essential business.  Additional information will be provided to our families through the usual parent notification calls and emails, district social media accounts, SCCPSS.com, and local media. 

Earlier this month, Governor Brian Kemp placed Georgia under a State of Emergency due to the spread of Coronavirus. The school District continues to maintain regular contact with the Georgia Department of Public Health, Chatham County Health Department, and the Chatham Emergency Management Agency, to monitor Coronavirus impacts in our area. 

 

Once again, all Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools will remain closed through April 24, 2020.  Please make sure to check this website regularly, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for further updates.

​UPDATED 3/25/2020:

SCCPSS Meal Delivery Routes Now Available for Service Starting Thursday

To expand the District’s reach and better serve our families during the ongoing school closure, SCCPSS will utilize a meal delivery program by school bus.  Beginning Thursday, March 26, meals will be distributed to families at more than 400 bus stops across the county. Meals will no longer be offered at the 12 school locations previously used as a distribution point.

On Thursday, meals for both Thursday and Friday will be delivered by school bus.  Buses will not run on Friday.  The meal delivery schedule of stops and their associated locations is now available online here​.​​

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need.  SCCPSS Campus Police will provide security on board the buses and will offer traffic support as appropriate. 

​Motorists are encouraged to be alert on Thursday from 10am-12noon as school buses will be on the roadways and in the community making various stops to provide food for families.  Visit SCCPSS.com for a complete list of meal delivery locations and times.  Simply look for the route departing from the school closest to you to find your nearest stop and time.  For any questions or concerns about Meal Stops, families should call the District’s Transportation Line at 912-395-5591.

UPDATED 3/24/2020:

SCCPSS Moves Meal Distribution Plan to Bus Delivery Service Method

Based on the exceptional circumstances related to the public health emergency associated with COVID-19 and in response to the needs of our students, SCCPSS began offering meals free of charge this week to our students each weekday during the mandated school closure. 

In an effort to expand the District’s reach and better serve our families, SCCPSS will utilize a meal delivery program by school bus.  Beginning Thursday, March 26, meals will be distributed to families at more than 400 bus stops across the county. Tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25, 2020, will be the last day for picking up meals at any of the 12 school locations.   On Thursday, meals for Thursday and Friday will be delivered by school bus.  Buses will not run on Friday. 

While there is a “shelter-at-home” order in effect for the City of Savannah, families may proceed to the stops for the purpose of receiving food, an essential need.  SCCPSS Campus Police will provide security on board the buses and will offer traffic support as appropriate. 

​Motorists are encouraged to be alert on Thursday from 10am-12noon as school buses will be on the roadways and in the community making various stops to provide food for families.  Bus food delivery locations and times will be available by the close of business on Wednesday, March 25, 2020.  Locations and further details will be posted to the district’s website, shared with all local media outlets, and other district communication channels. 

​​​UPDATED 3/22/2020:  

​The State of Georgia has a COVID-19 Hotline for questions from the public.  The hotline number is (844) 442-2681.  

UPDATED 3/20/2020:

​Per the Georgia Department of Education: Educators, parents, and students can expect that no state testing – to include Georgia Milestones, GAA 2.0, and GKIDS – will be administered in Georgia this year.

UPDATED 3/18/2020:

SCCPSS will Offer Meal Service to Students While Schools are Closed

Based on the exceptional circumstances relating to the declaration of a public health emergency due to COVID-19 and in response to the needs of our students, SCCPSS will offer a meal service opportunity for students during the mandated closure. 

SCCPSS Food and Nutrition staff will begin serving meals at no cost to Savannah-Chatham students beginning Monday, March 23rd and continuing weekdays until 12:00PM, April 1, 2020.  Twelve (12) Distribution sites have been identified based on federal guidelines.  The locations are listed below. 

Meals will be served using a curb side, drive through setting. Parents/guardians must have their children present at the time of pick up.  If possible, parents are asked not to exit the vehicle as staff work to keep conditions safe and lines moving efficiently.  Walk-ups will also be accommodated.

SCCPSS staff will be available at the designated sites each day from 10:00am-12:00pm.  Service will not be provided inside the school building.  Remember, our meals are only available to children 18 years old or younger.  Children must be present to receive the meal and to be counted for required state and federal recordkeeping. 

Families are welcome at any of our distribution sites, regardless of your specific school attendance zone. 

BEGINNING MARCH 23, 2020 - MEAL DISTRIBUTION SITES (M-F 10:00AM-12:00PM)

**Distribution sites identified as of March 23, 2020.  Sites subject to change based on need and conditions.  Please check our website regularly for site location updates.

GADSDEN ELEMENTARY

919 May Street, Savannah

BROCK ELEMENTARY

1804 Stafford Street, Savannah

HAVEN ELEMENTARY

5111 Dillon Avenue

HENDERSON E. FORMEY SCHOOL  

400 East Broad Street, Savannah

SOUTHWEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

6020 Ogeechee Road, Savannah

HESSE K-8 SCHOOL

9116 Whitfield Ave., Savannah

JULIETTE LOW ELEMENTARY

15 Blue Ridge Ave., Savannah

HODGE ELEMENTARY

975 Clinch Street, Savannah

WEST CHATHAM MIDDLE SCHOOL

800 Pine Barren Rd., Savannah

GROVES HIGH SCHOOL

100 Priscilla D. Thomas Way, Savannah

SCHOOL OF LIBERAL STUDIES AT SAVANNAH HIGH

400 Pennsylvania Ave., Savannah

JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL

3012 Sunset Blvd., Savannah

KEY POINTS:

  • Students must be present to receive meals.
  • Students must be 18 years or younger to receive meals.
  • Curb side pick-up will be offered.
  • Service inside the school building will not be offered.
  • Walk ups will be accommodated.
  • Twelve sites have been identified for meal distribution.
  • Families may visit any one of the sites for food service.

 ​Starting Monday, March 23, 2020, a food service hotline will be available for additional questions by calling 912-395-5515.


 

​​UPDATED 3/17/2020:

SCCPSS Operational Updates Related to Coronavirus Closure

With the District Closure starting Monday, March 23rd and lasting through Wednesday, April 1st, please note the following operational updates for our families.

 

DISTANCE LEARNING

During the school closure mandated by the Governor in response to the spread of the Coronavirus, SCCPSS students should plan to engage in Independent Learning Days.  This will ensure students are engaged in relevant, grade-appropriate learning opportunities while they are away from the classroom. 

If teachers have already set up a digital classroom, some students may receive assignments directly from their teachers. 

If students have not received assignments from their teachers by 10am on Monday, March 23rd, students should plan to complete ONE assignment each weekday from the Choice Boards that were sent home on March 13th and that have been posted on our website.  You can access this information from the front page of SCCPSS.com.  Simply click the button labeled: Independent Learning.

Choice Board tasks focus on the 4 Core Content Areas (ELA/Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies) as well as Georgia Standards of Excellence for each grade level. Tasks require few materials.  In most cases only pencil and paper are needed.  Students will be expected to turn in their completed Choice Board assignments within 5 days of the District’s return to school.  This will allow students and parents an opportunity to ask any questions and receive teacher support if needed before final submission of assignments.  

If there are any questions or concerns about assignments during the closure – please reach out to your teacher by email.

MEAL SERVICE:  SCCPSS will continue to offer meal service to students while schools are closed.

Based on the exceptional circumstances relating to the declaration of a public health emergency due to COVID-19 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is providing additional flexibilities in an effort to address concerns regarding the loss of meals for low-income children.   SCCPSS Food and Nutrition staff have had their application for Meal Service During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak approved by GaDOE and expect to begin serving meals to Savannah-Chatham students on Monday, March 23rd.  Distribution sites have been identified based on federal guidelines.  School Site locations where meals will be available and pick up times will be released later this week and posted to the District’s website.

 

LARGE GROUP PUBLIC EVENTS: District Cancellations

SCCPSS will follow the recommended guidelines from the Center for Disease Control as it relates to large group gatherings.  This includes, but is not limited to, the cancellation of concerts, award ceremonies, proms, athletic competitions, and other school/district activities that would invite a large public gathering.  Cancellations will be managed on a case by case scenario and proper notifications will be issued as soon as practical.

 

CLOSURE REMINDER: All Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools remain closed for Spring Break through Friday, March 20, 2020.  After Spring Break, SCCPSS will follow the school closure requirements stipulated by Governor Kemp.  Schools will reopen for the return of all staff on Wednesday, April 1, 2020.  Students will return to class on Thursday, April 2, 2020, unless health conditions dictate otherwise.

 

COLLECTING MEDICATION

 

Attention Parents:  If your child has medication in one of our school clinics that you need to collect due to the closure, please call the District’s Lead Nurse at (912) 395-1263 or Risk Management Office at (912) 395-5576 to make arrangements for the medication to be returned to you. 

​UPDATED 3/16/2020:

SCCPSS Announces School Closure Beyond Spring Break

Based on the Executive Order issued by Governor Kemp calling for the closure of all public schools in Georgia, SCCPSS announces a closure beyond the current Spring Break. The closure duration is subject to modification based on changing conditions. 


All schools are currently closed for Spring Break through Friday, March 20th, 2020.  Students will now remain out of school through Wednesday, April 1st, 2020, and will return to class on Thursday, April 2nd, 2020. 

 

After Spring Break, staff shall not report to work until Wednesday, April 1st, 2020, unless deemed part of the essential workforce as directed by his/her supervisor.

 

CLOSURE SCHEDULE:

Monday, March 16th – Friday, March 20th – Spring Break

Monday, March 23rd – Wednesday, April 1st – No school for students

Wednesday, April 1st – All Staff Return

Thursday, April 2nd – All Students Return

 

SCCPSS hopes to resume school operations for students on Thursday, April 2nd, 2020, but that is subject to change as healthcare concerns evolve.  Additional information will be provided to our families through the usual parent notification calls and emails, district social media accounts, SCCPSS.com, and local media. 

Specific instructions will be issued separately for staff regarding work schedules.

 

Governor Brian Kemp has placed Georgia under a State of Emergency due to the spread of Coronavirus. The school District continues to maintain regular contact with the Georgia Department of Public Health, Chatham County Health Department, and the Chatham Emergency Management Agency, to monitor Coronavirus impacts in our area. 

 

District staff have prepared for these conditions by making plans for the continuation of learning, meal service availability, and the cancelation of large group public events. Specific information on these topics will be provided tomorrow through the District’s communication channels and prominently displayed at sccpss.com.

 

Once again, all Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools will not reopen following Spring Break on Monday, March 23, 2020.  Instead, schools will remain closed for students through Wednesday, April 1, 2020.  Students will return to class on Thursday, April 2, 2020.

Please make sure to check our website – www.sccpss.com, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for further updates.

​​​​​​​​​Coronavirus:  Information and Guidelines for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools

Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools are closely monitoring the latest developments regarding the potential threat of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the United States and in our area. As we are updated by the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH), we will continue to follow the lead of local, state, and federal agencies. Our schools will continue to operate on a normal schedule as of now.  If circumstances warrant any changes to our operational schedules, parents will be notified by phone, email, website postings, social media and our media partners.

Further information will be posted on this website as needed, so we encourage you to check back regularly.  We have provided some additional resources you may find helpful at the bottom of this page.

Please be aware that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is asking school officials, as well as childcare centers and workplaces, to prepare for a possible outbreak. At this time, there are no confirmed cases in Chatham County. We are reinforcing the importance of healthy hygiene with our students and employees.

  • Should a confirmed case occur, we will immediately inform our school community
  • SCCPSS has a plan to address a potential pandemic, including a Continuity of Learning component
Currently, we are maintaining a four week supply of soap and hand sanitizers to make certain our staff and students are able to follow the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control regarding hand washing and general cleanliness to help ward off the chance of illness. Our staff are working to make certain our classrooms, cafeterias and school buses are kept clean and sanitized according to guidelines from the health department.  We have also contracted with an outside environmental firm that will be on call to respond in the event there is a need.  

While the full impact of an outbreak cannot be predicted, planning for operations under such conditions can lessen the impact of the event on our students, staff, facilities and mission. The health and safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.
Precautions to Take
We encourage staff, parents and students to follow the same sensible steps and precautions that address many viruses and common respiratory illnesses:
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Frequently wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Properly cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing with your elbow and not your hand.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Make sure your child's immunizations are up-to-date.
  • Stay home and do not go to work or school if you are sick.
If you have concerns about safety or sanitation we ask that you please contact your school's administrators directly, so that they are made aware of the issue and have a chance to respond. For additional help, please e-mail Communications@SCCPSS.com.

Information that’s Good to Know!

What supplies do schools have?

Custodial staff continually work to inventory school cleaning supplies such as soap, hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes and other cleaning agents.  If supplies are found lacking, the District will replenish as quickly as possible.  If parents wish to send any materials to their child’s school, we ask that you coordinate with your school principal to ascertain any specific needs.

What about student/staff absences?

If a student or staff member misses school due to an illness, that illness is excused as long a physician’s note is supplied in accordance with existing attendance policies.  SCCPSS seeks to educate students and staff about the effectiveness of handwashing, wiping down high-touch areas (doorknobs, handles, tabletops, etc.), social distancing, and use of disposable tissues.  

When do you tell a student or staff member to stay home and for how long?

Unless an individual has exhibited symptoms and has been tested for the CoVid19 strain, there is no reason to believe they have contracted the virus.  Students/staff exhibiting persistent symptoms of a communicable disease/condition may be required to undergo testing before being allowed to return to school.  The recommended quarantine for suspected cases of CoVid19 infection is 14 days.  Should it become necessary to invoke an e-learning or distance learning protocol, District guidelines will be provided.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Fever, coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing are all indicators of a respiratory ailment.  Additional symptoms to watch for are chills, body aches, sore throat, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or runny nose.   Follow this link for more: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/symptoms.html

What can parents and students do at home?

Our advice to the general public is the same as every cold and flu season.  First, we cannot overstress the importance of handwashing.  The use of soap and water is the single most important thing one can use to prevent disease and infection.  Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds (How long is 20 seconds?  Try singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice!)  Wash after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.   If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at minimum 60% alcohol.  Bleach is an excellent barrier to infection, as well, as are disposable wipes (Lysol, Clorox or store brands – please read the label to make certain it says “antibacterial” and mentions influenza virus on the label) used as directed.  In addition, cover coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue – and toss that tissue after you use it.  Make sure to stay home when you are sick.   Social distancing is important, as well.  This means staying 4-6’ away from other individuals who may exhibit symptoms.  Be mindful of traveling, especially to areas that could be considered high risk.

Re-entry of Students/Staff Traveling from Identified High Risk Areas:

Any student/staff returning from a location with sustained widespread transmission (Travel Warning of Level 3) should not attend school/return to work for 14 days after the return date. This includes family members of any student or staff member who may be living with someone who traveled to a high-risk area.  Specific directions on managing these absences will be provided to these individuals as needed.

Student Travel:            

Any school-sponsored and/or district-sponsored travel to areas with a Level 3 or 4 Travel Health Notice advisory for the coronavirus, as identified by the CDC or the US Department of State, will not be approved.  Currently, travel scheduled within the U.S. or for any area not identified as high risk will be reviewed for approval.  Any travel to events that contain a large number of attendees should be carefully considered and is subject to approval. Travel requests that have been approved, wherein travel has not yet occurred, shall also be subject to a second review for final approval.   

​​​​​____________________________________

When it comes to situations with unknown or uncertain factors, like COVID-19 (coronavirus), children can be frightened by what they hear from their classmates or what they see on the news. They often look to the adults in their lives for reassurance or how to react.  Among the important links posted below, you will find several that should be helpful when discussing the situation with your child.

Thank you for your understanding and continuing support as we work daily to keep students and staff safe in Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools.

Visit the CDC’s website for the most current news and information on the coronavirus (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html).​

Previous SCCPSS updates:
Letter from the Superintendent Regarding Impact on Spring Break Travel – 3/9/2020.
Superintendent's Video Message on Coronavirus Preparations​​ - 3/4/2020.
Letter from the Superintendent – 3/3/2020.
District Notice - Coronavirus - 1/29/2020.

If you have any questions or concerns about the Coronavirus, please contact the following:
Chatham County Health Department
Georgia Department of Health

Important Resources

The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System is committed to ensuring that digital content on its websites is accessible to persons with disabilities. If you or someone you know experiences an accessibility challenge on any of our web pages or digital content, please notify us by calling (912) 395-5538 or emailing communications@sccpss.com

SCCPSS Privacy Statement