The Port Clinton City School District enjoyed a successful start to the school year, especially Sophia Hargrove. The youngster was celebrating her 10th birthday, her new mask, and the first day of school at Bataan Memorial Elementary School.

Port Clinton City School District began the new school year under a hybrid system designed to provide added safety for students and staff and allow for maximum social distancing measures while in school.
Students were divided into Group A and Group B, or an Online Learning option that was also provided. Under the hybrid model, half of the students attend one day with the other half experiencing remote learning.
Monday is a full remote day for everyone. On Mondays, staff can also meet with small groups of students and provide intervention and extra help for those requiring it.
The Online Learning Academy was an option selected by 24% of the student population. Port Clinton teachers have been assigned to teach the online classrooms, which has been accomplished without hiring additional staff.
The first day of school for the Port Clinton City School Group B was Monday, Aug. 31. Group A’s first day was Tuesday, Sept. 1.
“We are grateful for the cooperation and patience of our students, staff, and families,” said Superintendent of Schools Pat Adkins. “Everyone did a wonderful job with all the new safety guidelines and the hybrid model. While not ideal, we believe (our system) provides the greatest measure of safety to begin the school year.”
Tents and picnic tables have been in place at both the high school, middle school and Bataan Elementary campuses to provide outdoor classroom space and “mask breaks” for students. The City of Port Clinton, Port Clinton Yacht Club, and The Resort at Erie Landing have allowed the school district to borrow picnic tables.
“During our planning we had three main objectives: The safety and health of all students and staff; Providing the best possible instruction in any situation; and be the school of choice. I am extremely proud of everyone in this school district and what we have been able to accomplish. There is no ‘playbook’ for this situation and I believe we have a sound plan in place to allow for safety while still providing instruction to our students.”
The complete Restart Plan is available at the school district website, www.pccsd.net. The plan outlines all the new guidelines and information as the school year finally begins.