The Page County Public Schools Board convened on August 13, 2020, to address pressing concerns regarding the upcoming school year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting featured a series of public comments that highlighted the challenges of balancing educational needs with health guidelines.

The first speaker raised significant concerns about the difficulties of social distancing among students, particularly in high school settings where students frequently change classes. The speaker emphasized that behavioral issues could arise from students' reluctance to adhere to mask-wearing and social distancing, which could detract from the academic environment. They also pointed out the socioeconomic challenges faced by families in the community, suggesting that the school system should facilitate the distribution of educational materials alongside meal pickups to alleviate burdens on low-income families.

The discussion then shifted to the needs of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The speaker expressed uncertainty about how these students could receive appropriate educational services while adhering to health guidelines, noting that many require close contact and may struggle to wear masks.

In contrast, another speaker, Joey Sowers, advocated for a return to in-person education, citing the importance of classroom learning for kinesthetic learners. He argued that remote learning options alone would not suffice, particularly for students who rely on school for meals and support. Sowers urged the board to consider the implications of remote learning on parents, especially single working mothers, who may struggle to manage their children's education at home.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to prioritize student needs in their decision-making process, acknowledging the complexities of the situation but emphasizing the importance of in-person education for the well-being of students and families.

Overall, the board's discussions reflected a community grappling with the challenges of providing quality education while ensuring the health and safety of students and staff. The board is expected to continue evaluating options for the upcoming school year, balancing educational needs with public health considerations.