Bedford County opens child care sites for first responders amid COVID-19 closures

The Bedford County Public Schools Board meeting on April 9, 2020, focused on two critical areas: child care services for first responders and the continuity of learning plan amid the ongoing pandemic.

In response to the closure of schools, the district initiated child care services for essential personnel, including first responders and staff members. Led by Beth Robertson and Patricia Knox, the team opened three child care sites—Goodview Elementary, Bedford Elementary, and New London Academy—beginning March 23. Currently, Bedford Elementary serves 25 registered children, while New London Academy has 11. The facilities operate five days a week, from 6 AM to 6 PM, with stringent health protocols in place, including temperature screenings and handwashing procedures. Staff members, including nurses and teachers, ensure a safe environment, with continuous cleaning of classrooms and equipment.

The meeting also addressed the continuity of learning for students, particularly seniors. All graduating seniors have been contacted and informed that they will graduate on time if they were passing their courses at the time of school closure. For those not passing, opportunities for makeup work are being provided. The district is committed to ensuring that all students, including those in dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, have access to necessary resources to complete their coursework.

For students in grades K-11, teachers are developing essential learning opportunities to minimize educational gaps. These resources will be available online and in various formats, including printed materials and USB flash drives for those without internet access. The district is also utilizing public Wi-Fi access points and mailing learning packets to families in need.

As the situation evolves, Bedford County Public Schools is preparing for potential recovery plans, including robust summer sessions to address learning gaps. The administration has canceled all spring Standards of Learning (SOL) tests and is exploring flexible grading options to support students' progress during this unprecedented time. The special education department is also adapting to meet the needs of students while adhering to required timelines for meetings and evaluations.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's proactive measures to support both first responders and students during the pandemic, ensuring that essential services and educational continuity remain a priority.