HEARNE, Texas — Though the county is experiencing high COVID-19 cases, Hearne ISD completed its first week of classes without issue. Dr. Adrian Johnson, Hearne ISD Superintendent, said the district is feeling confident in the school year.
"I feel some sense of responsibility and I take that very seriously from the moment the buses crank up and take off to pick up children," said Dr. Johnson.
The district requires all bus riders to wear masks and temperatures must be checked before children can step on the bus. They are encouraging students and staff to wear masks on school grounds. Visitors are only allowed on campus if they have an appointment.
To help enforce these policies the school has added more staff which include a registered nurse, two social workers, multiple teachers, and administrative staff.
"It starts in the home if your child is feeling sick or showing signs of being sick or someone in your house is feeling sick, please keep your child at home until you are certain they pass the protocols," Dr. Johnson added.
As for extracurricular activities, there are no limitations on fans and students participating.
The district is offering virtual learning opportunities to those that need it but the superintendent added the most effective way to learn is in person and in school.
"Children are still developing relationships, language, vocabulary at this very early age in their life and they need that verbal proximity experience, " said Dr. Johnson.
Enrollment numbers remain steady for the district and they will keep their website updated with the number of positive cases.
Right now there is no threshold for the district.