Students attending Tonkawa Public Schools whether it be the “Traditional Path” or “Virtual Path” will have to wait another week before the start of school. The new start date is Thursday, August 20.
School leaders have been working tirelessly to prepare for the safety and well-being of students as they return to school. The Oklahoma State Department of Education has added mandates including additional policies and procedures during the past week. In order to comply, the District has devoted much time to meeting the demands.
TPS is waiting on the delivery of 150 backordered chrome books. When the order is filled, all students will have access to a device. Hot spots are on order for those students who lack internet connectivity. The additional week will allow for these items to arrive and be distributed.
Tonkawa Schools has registered 64 students in the first Tonkawa Virtual Academy. Students will be enrolled in Edmentum Curriculum. Those choosing this pathway will also receive a chrome book upon attending a meeting with a parent/guardian, signing a contract and paying a $25 technology fee.
“Providing a safe environment with a hint of normal is our goal. This is new to all of us. More preparation time before the beginning of school will help prepare learning spaces for social distancing, and put procedures in place that will allow us to keep our kids healthy and Covid free,” said TPS Superintendent Lori Simpson. “Please continue to support our administration, teachers, and staff throughout the reopening of schools and beyond. It is going to be like no other year in education. We have been blessed to have a great support network Remember the meaning of Tonkawa is---They all stay together.”
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