COVID-19 update from the Oconee public schools

“SDOC continues to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak. As of today, March 13, 2020, there are no confirmed cases within Oconee County. We continue to consult with DHEC, the State Department of Education and the Governor’s Office as we make decisions regarding schools. Please see the following updates as of today.
School Closing – As of this afternoon, Gov. Henry McMaster closed both Kershaw and Lancaster School Districts for 14 days in response to the spread of COVID-19. District Superintendents have a conference call this evening with the State Department of Education to discuss issues regarding COVID-19. Athletics – Any SDOC athletic competition scheduled for the weekend of March 13-15th may go on as scheduled. Further information concerning athletics will be announced at a later date after a meeting of the SC High School League Executive Committee scheduled on Monday. Field Trips – Beginning Monday, March 16th, all field trips will be cancelled until at least Monday, April 26, 2020. This date may change as the situation continues to develop.
Afterschool Activities – Beginning Monday, March 16th, after-school activities that just involve children, such as 21st Century grant programs and YMCA aftercare, will continue. Any after-school or evening activity that brings visitors into our schools will be postponed or cancelled. School Visitors – As of Monday, March 16th, only essential visitors will be allowed in our schools. We will suspend all external professional development, mentoring, Good News Club, All-Pro Dads, and other programs that bring visitors into our schools. We will limit parent/guardian visits to teacher conferences and IEP meetings. Food Service – We have taken the following steps to better protect our students: o All students will wash hands before entering the cafeteria o Increased sanitizing of common surfaces in the kitchen and cafeteria o All food will be served by an adult, no students will self-serve food items. o Working on plans on how to provide meals during closure if it happens. Distance Learning – Our instructional department continues to fine-tune distance learning opportunities in the event we have to close schools for an extended time period. More information on this will be made available as it is needed.”