2-15-2021 BOC Joint Meeting with the Board of Education

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In October when the transition to Plan B took place, parents were provided a choice to remain remote or go back to in-person learning. The Governor's Order states that high schools have to be in Plan B or C at this time. In-person capacity is determined on a per classroom basis, classrooms and hallways are measured off to allow adequate room for social distancing. Commissioner Smith asked for a balance sheet of state funding and expenses. Commissioner Carver asked whether thought has been given to the unintended consequences of the pandemic and if there are plans for remediation. Superintendent Bryan stated that teachers continue to assess students. Each 3rd grader is tested by the State. Teachers also have individual assessments they use to determine where students are. On the social level, there has been a great deal of effort invested in making sure counselors, teachers, and social workers are staying in contact with student even when remote. There has been a program that has been set up to alert to and identify students in crisis. Juniors and Seniors are still being supported as they apply for college. Dr. Bryan added that the Lee Promise Program is going to be a lifeline for many students to continue their education. At this time, Chairman Kirk Smith requested and Dr. Bryan agreed to provide a record of CARES Act funding and expenditures related to the schools. Commissioner Lovick stated his commendation and support for the teachers and school workers for all of their hard work in adapting to the changing environment. Superintendent Bryan stated that there are some things that are no longer going to be done and some things connected to virtual learning will become the normal way of educating students. Discussion Regarding the Impact of the Pandemic on Schools and the County County Manager John Crumpton talked about the County and schools being open. The County has been open throughout the pandemic. 40% of employees were sent home to work for a period of time. Phones were set up at home so no request was going unfulfilled. Some employees have worked 7 days a week since March. Tomorrow the County is scheduled to vaccinate 1,350 people with second shots and about 50 people will be there to make sure it goes smoothly. Wednesday and Thursday there will be first shots administered. February 23rd there will be first doses for over 1,200 citizens in Lee County. Group 3 will open March 10th. The EOC has 8-12 people from County departments answering phone calls. Last week when the event was opened for educators, calls were coming in from other counties and the County had to cut them off and limit vaccination for educators to Lee County educators. Those that had gotten in the system will be merged with others in the system. After tomorrow, close to 4,000 people will be fully vaccinated. The County's allocation ended and all CARES Act money has been spent except for funds allocated to the Health Department and Senior Services. The County was able to use some of the CARES Act funds to help about 15-16 small businesses and another 12 non-profits. Dr. Crumpton stated that with regards to broadband funding, Lee County is a tier 2 county, and all tier 1 counties received funding to run broadband in their counties. Moore County is the only