Catholic schools reopen in Massachusetts

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Originally posted on www.abc6.com
by Ellie Romano

ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WLNE) – The Fall River Diocese includes 20 catholic schools in 11 different towns, spanning from Mansfield to Cape Cod.

All of the elementary schools are set to reopen fully in-person, with most of the schools already open.

“Everything went rather smoothly, so we feel very blessed,” said Kellie Kickham, the Principal of St. John the Evangelist School in Attleboro.

Her school reopened last Wednesday with in-person lessons. Students are spread out at socially distanced desks. There’s increased sanitation and hand washing. All teachers and students wear a mask.

“They wear their masks every day. I was so impressed by our kindergartners and first graders. They literally wear it all day. They never complain,” said Kickham.

There are about 200 students at St. John the Evangelist School, with students ranging from preschool to eighth grade.

Parents were given the option for their child to return in-person, remotely, or in a hybrid model.

Kickham said about 10 students opted for full distance learning. To accommodate those students, all classes are live streamed on Zoom.

“The [remote] students are able to raise their hands, talk to their teacher, engage with their teachers, and with other students as well,” said Kickham.

High schools are undergoing a staggered reopening with a hybrid model because of capacity restrictions.

All schools are following health guidelines released by the state.

“We feel that the guidance that has been set forth is critical to follow,” said Daniel Roy, the Superintendent of Schools in the Diocese of Fall River.

If any students or teachers get the coronavirus, the school with the positive case will work with the local board of health to assess the situation and determine if the schools needs to switch to distance learning.