Local

Several Clarke County schools switching to virtual due to COVID-19 staffing shortages

ATHENS, Ga. — Four schools in Clarke County will switch to virtual learning the rest of the week as the district deals with COVID-19 staffing shortages.

Athens-Clarke County schools said all students will do virtual learning on Thursday and Friday at the following schools: Alps Road Elementary, Clarke Middle, Cedar Shoals High and Clarke Central High.

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“We understand that this decision will pose challenges for our students and families, and we did not make it lightly. Principals will communicate details regarding extra-curricular activities and how to access student meals,” acting Superintendent Brannon Gaskins said.

Right now, the staffing issues are at those four schools. Athens-Clarke County Schools said it will notify students and parents if any other schools are impacted.

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Clarke County is not the only school district dealing with staffing shortages due to COVID-19.

Floyd and Chattooga schools closed Friday and Tuesday, not because of weather, but because of the current spike in cases following the omicron variant outbreak.

“It does bring a little bit of concern with them saying there’s a teacher shortage because of COVID,” said Latashia Baker, a mother to five students. “It can be challenging at times, especially with work.”

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