earn certifications towards employment across a number of professions, gain invaluable on-thejob experience through Work-Based Leaming and internship programs, and participate with real-world applications of science, technology, engineering and math.
A Letter from the ECSD Superintendent
T
he Effingham County School District is eagerly preparing for a new and exciting school year despite COVID-19’s efforts to dampen our enthusiasm. This past Spring, our teachers and staff responded quickly to the unforeseen challenges of the pandemic to create effective and resourceful ways to educate students. Additionally, district employees have worked endless hours this summer to revise our educational delivery models to allow for both virtual and traditional learning opportunities. We have also set procedures in place to mitigate the spread of the virus within our school system so families can feel confident that students are learning in a safe and healthy environment. The Effingham County School District is currently serving approximately 13,000 pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students. Our reputation for quality education in a safe environment guarantees that those numbers will continue to increase each year. Our elementary and middle school students receive strong educational foundations preparing them for high school programs such as Honors and Advanced Placement courses, participation with the STEM Academy, and opportunities for involvement in one of our many career pathways at ECCA. Our students can earn college credit while still in high school,
This year, ECSD families were given the opportunity to choose between two class-setting options: the Traditional Leaming Option and the Virtual Leaming Option. Students enrolled in the traditional option will participate with classes in the conventional brick-and-mortar school setting. In an effort to provide the safest possible environment for students and staff in the traditional setting, extra measures will be enforced to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include random temperature checks, increased cleaning and disinfection of school buildings, increased availability of hand sanitizer, modified classroom seating arrangements, and social distancing to the greatest extent practicable. Students who participate with the Virtual Leaming Option will take all classes at home in a virtual environment while remaining enrolled in the Effingham County school system. Although the virtual option has been made available specifically for students with medical needs or health conditions, no student has been required to provide a documented medical reason to participate. ECSD has made virtual learning available to all interested families and plans to provide chromebooks to eligible families as well as additional Wi-Fi connectivity in selected areas throughout the community.
Our school system would like to express gratitude to Effingham County citizens for voting to accept the bond referendum at the June 9th election. These funds will enable us to continue to offer exceptional programs in safe facilities. The ESPLOST funds will support projects including needed additions to several ECSD schools, increased safety measures to protect staff and students, a new elementary and middle school within the next five years, and reduction of traffic congestion during pick up and drop off times. The citizens have entrusted us with these financial resources, and we are committed to utilizing them responsibly to meet the needs of our growing student population. It is a privilege for the Effingham County School District to educate the students of our wonderful community, and we are grateful to be a part of the Effingham family. We vow to do all we can to continue earning your trust and support and to offer Effingham’s children the best possible educational experiences. Sincerely,
Dr. Yancy Ford ECSD Superintendent
26 August/September 2020 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com
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