Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (5/5/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.
• Please be aware:  With the last day of the KCS school calendar on May 19, 2021, the 2020-21 school year weekly updates will cease publication at that time.   New updates or information after that time will be shared with the KCS community as soon as possible, regardless of the day-of-week.  Any decisions regarding future publication schedules will be determined at a later date.

• Please be aware that at this time, after ongoing consultation with the Tennessee Department of Health and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, Kingsport City Schools will continue to operate utilizing all current operational procedures (such as enhanced disinfecting protocols, mask wearing, and social distancing whenever possible) through the last day of school (5/19/21) as outlined in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual. 
• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual) and the ability to staff schools.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.
• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

 

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (4/21/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• • All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
  • All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (4/14/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual) and the ability to staff schools.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.
• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (4/7/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• • All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
  • All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.
  • Please note:  Beginning today (April 7, 2021), the Weekly Update will be distributed via email and posted online only (no text alert) unless there is a change to the KCS operating status.

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.
• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.
• All students will be on Spring Break the week of March 29 - April 2, 2021

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible. Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year: Operations Manual) and the ability to staff schools.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.
• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible. This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website www.k12k.com to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions. Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children. Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (3/17/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• • All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
  • All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.

• • As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual) and the ability to staff schools.
  • KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.
  • KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
  • A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
  • The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (3/10/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  
• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.
• Monday, March 15 is a scheduled off-day for all students due to it being a teacher in-service/professional learning day.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (2/17/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.  

• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.

• Friday, March 5, 2021 will be a virtual learning day for all KCS students (both Face-to-Face and Remote Choice Learners) to allow for KCS Staff vaccinations.

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual), the ability to staff, and/or if time needs to be available for KCS staff to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.

• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

 

• All Face-to-Face students will continue to have in-person learning at school.
• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.
• Friday, February 12 and Friday, March 5, 2021 will be virtual learning days for all KCS students (both Face-to-Face and Remote Choice Learners) to allow for KCS Staff vaccinations.
• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible. Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year: Operations Manual), the ability to staff, and/or if time needs to be available for KCS staff to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.

• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (2/3/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status:

• Beginning on Monday, February 8, 2021, all Face-to-Face students will have in-person learning at school.  

• All Remote Choice Learning students will continue with virtual instruction.

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  Changes to school operations will continue to be informed by items such as the School District Decision-Making Protocol for Responses to Multiple Cases (found in the Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual), the ability to staff, and/or if time needs to be available for KCS staff to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.
• KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

Here is an update (1/20/21) regarding the KCS Operating Status for the upcoming weeks:

• Information on KCS operating status:

• KCS will continue with the current plan for operations through Friday, February 5, 2021.

• • All Pre-K - 5th grade students will have in-person learning at school.

• • 6th - 12th grade students will have in-person learning utilizing a hybrid schedule. Based on feedback gathered throughout the fall semester, the schedule to be utilized is slightly different than the one used during first semester… Students will attend using an “A/B/A/B” schedule, alternating days of attendance.  This is being utilized to address concerns regarding the gap of days students were out of school with the previous model.  
  • All students will have virtual learning on Wednesday, January 27, 2021.  This will assist in addressing concerns with staffing levels and to ensure schools can remain as open and effective as possible.  The virtual day will allow for the most strategic approach for classroom coverage during the remaining four school days that week.
  • Please see below for the current schedule through February 5, 2021.

• All RCL students will continue with virtual learning.

• There has been an update to the the KCS COVID-19 Dashboard:  With a change in how KCS is now tracking absences, we can more accurately determine the full scope of students and staff being isolated or quarantined (Isolated = An individual identified as testing positive for COVID-19; Quarantine = Someone with exposure to a known positive COVID-19 case closer than 6 feet for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period).  Starting on January 19, 2021, KCS has modified school-level attendance reporting to more accurately identify students that are absent specifically due to being isolated or quarantined.  To provide transparency, this daily total is now being posted each afternoon.

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.

• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

At tonight’s (1/12/21) KCS Board of Education meeting, Dr. Jeff Moorhouse provided an update to the KCS Operating Status for the upcoming weeks:

• Information on KCS operating status:

• KCS will continue with virtual instruction for all students through Friday, January 15, 2021.

• KCS will return to in-person learning on Tuesday, January 19th.  

• • All Pre-K - 5th grade students will return to in-person learning at school.
  • 6th - 12th grade students will return to in-person learning utilizing a hybrid schedule. Based on feedback gathered throughout the fall semester, the schedule to be utilized is slightly different than the one used during first semester… Students will attend using an “A/B/A/B” schedule, alternating days of attendance.  This is being utilized to address concerns regarding the gap of days students were out of school with the previous model.  

• • Please see below for the current schedule through January 29, 2021.

• • All RCL students will continue with virtual learning.

• As we have done throughout the past many months, we will continue to monitor the state of health in our schools and community and any adjustments to our operating schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.  KCS will continue to coordinate with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department to review information and implement operational structures that provide the maximum amount of face-to-face learning as possible.

• KCS and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department continue to encourage you to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year.

This week (12/3/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the weeks of December 7-11 and 14-18:
  • Starting Monday, December 7, all Pre-K/Elementary Face-to-Face students will attend on a hybrid schedule (4-day in-person with virtual instruction on Wednesday). See below for full schedule.  Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  Sevier Middle School will be operating with virtual learning through 12/11/20 (due to staffing).
  • RATIONALE FOR CHANGE TO PRE-K/ELEMENTARY SCHEDULE:  KCS administration has continued to evaluate the staffing, attendance, and COVID-19 impacted situations in our schools.  A 4-day hybrid schedule for elementary schools will be utilized beginning with the week of December 7-11.  This will address current concerns with staffing levels and ensure schools can remain as open and effective as possible.  The virtual day will allow for the most strategic approach for classroom coverage during the remaining four school days and for additional cleaning of schools.
  • As has been previously stated, please be aware that in consultation with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, KCS will continue to monitor the status of our schools.  Should unexpected health situations occur that require more restrictive operations, KCS may have to make adjustments to the schedule.  Any such changes would be communicated as soon as possible.
  • Based on the weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, KCS continues to encourage our community to please wear a face mask, socially distance, and avoid large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community. 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (11/19/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of November 23-27 AND the weeks following Thanksgiving Break through the end of the semester (November 30 - December 18, 2020):
  • Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  Pre-K/Elementary Face-to-Face students will attend school in-person.
    • To provide additional notice for family and staff planning, KCS is working to provide schedule decisions based on longer blocks of time.  PLEASE BE AWARE: Should unexpected health situations arise that require more restrictive operations, KCS may have to make adjustments to the schedule.  Any such changes would be communicated as soon as possible.
  • Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport remains high.  
    • PLEASE! Especially over the Thanksgiving holiday, we ask for your help in working to extend our important safety efforts beyond the school doors.  Please wear a face mask and socially distance, avoiding large group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  Doing this is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students. 

• There are several key reminders as Face-to-Face students have in-person instruction at school:
• Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
• All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
• All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
• Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (11/12/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of November 16-20 AND the week of November 23-27, 2020:

• • Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will continue to operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  All Pre-K/Elementary Face-to-Face students will continue to attend school in-person.

• • Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport continues to remain high.  

• • • PLEASE!  Along with the health department, we ask for your help in working to extend our important safety efforts beyond the school doors.  Please wear a face mask and socially distance, avoiding group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  Doing this is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students. 

• Please note that with this update, we are including operating status for the Monday and Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving Break.  KCS will provide information regarding the week after break (November 30 - December 4) prior to Thanksgiving Day.

• There are several key reminders as Face-to-Face students have in-person instruction at school:
• Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
• All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
• All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
• Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children during the Fall 2020 semester.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (11/5/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of November 9-13, 2020:
  • Based on guidance related to health conditions in our community, Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will continue to operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  All Pre-K/Elementary Face-to-Face students will continue to attend school in-person.

• • Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport continues to remain high.  

• • • PLEASE!  Along with the health department, we ask for your help in working to extend our important safety efforts beyond the school doors.  Please wear a face mask and socially distance, avoiding group activities wherever possible.  This will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  Doing this is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students. 

• Also, please be aware of a change in how KCS is reporting positive COVID-19 cases on our district dashboard:

• • Starting on 10/26/20, KCS began placing positive cases confirmed by the Sullivan County Regional Health Department AND what are defined as “presumed positive” cases on the dashboard.  These “presumed positive” cases are those which have been reported to the KCS Supervisor of Nursing, but are not yet confirmed by the Sullivan County Regional Health Department.
  • We have added these presumed positive cases to our case-count to support the most timely and transparent response to potential cases in our schools.

• There are several key reminders as Face-to-Face students have in-person instruction at school:
  • Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
  • All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
  • All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
  • Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children during the Fall 2020 semester.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (10/29/20), we want to provide you with several important updates"

• For the week of November 2-6, 2020:

• • Based on guidance related to health conditions in our community, Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will continue to operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  All Pre-K/Elementary Face-to-Face students will attend school in-person.

• • Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport continues to remain high.  

• • • To help improve our situation, the health department stresses it is critical that safety efforts extend beyond the school doors.  In addition to wearing face masks and social distancing, they emphasize that avoiding group activities wherever possible will help control the spread of COVID-19 cases across our community.  Doing this is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students. 

• Also, please be aware of a change in how KCS is reporting positive COVID-19 cases on our district dashboard:

• • Starting on 10/26/20, KCS began placing positive cases confirmed by the Sullivan County Regional Health Department AND what are defined as “presumed positive” cases on the dashboard.  These “presumed positive” cases are those which have been reported to the KCS Supervisor of Nursing, but are not yet confirmed by the Sullivan County Regional Health Department.

• • We have added these presumed positive cases to our case-count to support the most timely and transparent response to potential cases in our schools.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (10/22/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of October 26-30, 2020:
  • Based on guidance related to health conditions in our community, Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  All elementary Face-to-Face students will attend school in-person.
  • Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport is continuing to increase.  To help improve our situation, the health department stresses that it is critical we continue with our efforts to take appropriate safety precautions, including wearing face masks and social distancing, whenever possible.  Controlling this increase in COVID-19 cases across our community is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students.       

• • There are several key reminders as Face-to-Face students have in-person instruction at school:
    • Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
    • All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
    • All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
    • Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
  • A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
  • The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children during the Fall 2020 semester.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this school year. 

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (10/15/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of October 19-23, 2020:

• • Based on guidance related to health conditions in our community, Face-to-Face students in Grades 6-12 will operate on a hybrid schedule (see below).  All elementary face-to-face students will attend school in-person.

• • Please remember that Monday, October 19 is a professional learning in-service day for teachers.  Students return from Fall Break on Tuesday, October 20. 
• Based on today’s weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the level of COVID-19 community spread across Kingsport is high.  To help improve our situation, the health department stresses that it is critical we continue with our efforts to take appropriate safety precautions, including wearing face masks and social distancing, whenever possible.  Controlling this increase in COVID-19 cases across our community is an extremely important part of our ability to return to full in-person instruction for all KCS students.       

• There are several key reminders as face-to-face students have in-person instruction at school:
  • Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
  • All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
  • All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
  • Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children during the Fall 2020 semester.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this semester.  Meals will be available at elementary school sites for drive-up/pick-up each day from 10-10:30 a.m. for virtual learners

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (10/1/20), we want to provide you with several important updates:

• For the week of October 5 - 9, 2020:

• • Based on the weekly meeting with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the current level of community spread has been determined to be in the "yellow" operational zone.

• • All Face-to-Face students in grades PreK-12 will have in-person instruction at school.

• There are several key reminders as all face-to-face students have in-person instruction at school:
  • Every effort will be made to social distance whenever possible while students are at school. 
  • All students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
  • All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
  • Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide free meals for all children during the Fall 2020 semester.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this semester.  Meals will be available at elementary school sites for drive-up/pick-up each day from 10-10:30 a.m. for virtual learners. 

  

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (9/10/20), we want to provide you with several updates:

• For the week of September 14-18, 2020:

• • All Face-to-Face students in grades PreK-5 will have in-person instruction at school Monday through Friday.

• • Face-to-Face students in grades 6-12 will have in-person instruction at school utilizing a hybrid attendance schedule.  

• • • Students with a last name starting with A-J will attend in-person at school on Monday and Tuesday. 

• • • Students with a last name starting with K-Z will attend in-person at school on Thursday and Friday. 

• • • All face-to-face students in grades 6-12 will be virtual on Wednesday.

• In consultation with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, it is evident that our efforts to improve the health conditions in our community are paying off.  Thank you for doing your part to wash, wait, and wear.  This coming week is an important one in our efforts to return to full face-to-face instruction… Health officials indicate that should current trends continue, it is possible for us to return to a “yellow” status by the next weekly update.  PLEASE CONTINUE TO DO YOUR PART TO KEEP US HEADING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION!  Your support is greatly appreciated.

• Please remember:
• Students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
• All individuals should utilize social distancing measures (minimum 6 feet) whenever possible.  
• All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
• Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

This week (9/3/20), we want to provide you with several updates:

• For the week of September 7-11, 2020:

• • All students and staff will be off on Monday for Labor Day.

• • All Face-to-Face students in grades PreK-5 will have in-person instruction at school Tuesday through Friday.

• • Face-to-Face students in grades 6-12 will have in-person instruction at school utilizing a hybrid attendance schedule.  

• • • Students with a last name starting with A-J will attend in-person at school on Tuesday and Wednesday. 

• • • Students with a last name starting with K-Z will attend in-person at school on Thursday and Friday. 

• Please remember:
  • Students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
  • All individuals should utilize social distancing measures (minimum 6 feet) whenever possible.  
  • All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
  • Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department is continuing to provide meals during virtual learning.  Please know that meals for all children age 18 and under will be free of charge through the end of this semester.  Meals will be available at school sites for drive-up/pick-up each day from 10-10:30 a.m. for virtual learners.   

Important Message from the Sullivan County Regional Health Department : As we move into the Labor Day holiday weekend, please practice safety, social distance, avoid large crowds, and wear a mask.  Data indicates the safety efforts currently taking place are paying off, but now is not the time to ease up.  Let’s keep it going and continue to make a difference in our community!

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

We are pleased to share the following information regarding the status of KCS operations.  Beginning this week, we will be sending what was the “Friday Morning Update” on Thursdays, in order to provide staff and families additional time to plan for the following week.  These updates will continue to be informed by the weekly meeting KCS has with the Sullivan County Regional Health Department each Thursday.

This week (8/27/20), we want to provide you with several updates:

• Beginning on Monday, August 31, 2020:

• • All Face-to-Face students in grades PreK-5 will return to in-person instruction at school.

• • • Reminder: The Elementary school day is now from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• • Face-to-Face students in grades 6-12 will return to in-person instruction at school utilizing a hybrid attendance schedule.  Separated by alphabet (by last name), 6th-12th grade students will attend in-person two days a week and virtually three days a week. 

• • • Students with a last name starting with A-J will attend in-person at school on Mondays and Tuesdays. 

• • • Students with a last name starting with K-Z will attend in-person at school on Thursdays and Fridays. 

• • All 6th-12th grade students will attend virtually on Wednesdays, to allow for increased school disinfecting.  However, on weeks where there are only four school days regularly scheduled (for example, Monday off for Labor Day), the all-virtual day will be eliminated.

• Please remember:
• Students, staff, and visitors are required to appropriately wear face masks while at school.
• All individuals should utilize social distancing measures (minimum 6 feet) whenever possible.  
• All students will be temperature-checked before entering school.
• Enhanced disinfecting and operational procedures will be in-place at all school locations.
• A dashboard has been created on the KCS website (www.k12k.com) to keep you posted on the KCS operating status and community health conditions.  Click here to access this information, which is updated daily.
• The KCS School Nutrition department will continue to provide the opportunity to receive meals during virtual learning.  Please note that regulations have slightly changed, now that in-person learning is occurring in schools.  Meals will be available at school sites for drive-up pick-up each day from 10 - 10:30 a.m. for virtual learners.  Please click here for more information on the school-year feeding program. 

Remember, you can make a difference by helping us “Go Green” by practicing the three W’s… Wash, Wait, and Wear.  Please wash your hands, wait to create six feet of social distance, and wear a face mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  These are all ways we can help to get Sullivan County back into the green status.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

With the return to in-person (at school) face-to-face learning, please be aware that beginning on Monday, August 31, 2020, meal distribution for students not attending school in-person will be available on school days through ON-SITE PICK-UP FROM 10 - 10:30 A.M. 

Feeding Program -  General Information

• Meals are available for any enrolled KCS student.
• Student name and school enrollment (student ID) is required to receive meals.
• Meals are free for students enrolled in Community Eligibility Program schools (Sevier, Jackson, Lincoln, Kennedy, and Roosevelt) OR if the student qualifies for free and reduced meal benefits. Apply for meal benefits at www.onlinemealapplication.k12k.com.
• Meal costs for paid students:
  • Breakfast:  
    • $1.50 (all locations)
    • $2.00 (additional breakfast) (available for siblings of KCS students)
    • $2.50 (visitor breakfast)
  • Lunch:
    • $2.50 (Elementary)
    • $2.65 (Middle)
    • $2.75 (High)
    • $3.50 (additional lunch) (available for siblings of KCS students)
    • $4.00 (visitor lunch)

• Paying students will need to have funds in their student account to purchase meals. Visit www.mypaymentsplus.com to add funds and view student purchases. Call KCS School Nutrition Services at (423) 378.2113 for information or support, including how to sign up for MyPaymentsPlus.

Feeding Program - School Site Pick-up Option

• Lunch will be available at school sites from 10 - 10:30 a.m. 

• Families with students at multiple KCS schools may pick up all meals at one school site.
• Food will be distributed using a “drive-through” or “walk-up” process.  Cafeteria seating will not be available for students not attending school in-person.
• Cash transactions will be available at school pick-up sites.

Daily school site meal pick-up is intended for students that have selected Remote Choice Learning -OR- those that are on a hybrid schedule and attending school virtually that day. Click here for a listing of school locations and distribution sites.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

At tonight’s KCS Board of Education work session, Dr. Jeff Moorhouse, KCS Superintendent, presented an update regarding the return of KCS Face-to-Face students to in-person learning (at schools) starting on Monday, August 31, 2020.  Please be aware that:

Beginning on Monday, August 31, 2020:

• All Face-to-Face students in grades PreK-5 will return to in-person instruction at school.
• Face-to-Face students in grades 6-12 will return to in-person instruction at school utilizing a hybrid attendance schedule.  Separated by alphabet (by last name), 6th-12th grade students will attend in-person two days a week and virtually three days a week.
  • Students with a last name starting with A-J will attend in-person (at school) on Mondays and Tuesdays.  
  • Students with a last name starting with K-Z will attend in-person (at school) on Thursdays and Fridays.  
  • All students will attend virtually on Wednesdays, to allow for increased school disinfecting.  However, on weeks where there are only four school days regularly scheduled (for example, Monday off for Labor Day), the all-virtual day will be eliminated.
  • Additionally, the KCS Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year:  Operations Manual has also been revised to outline the return to in-person instruction (Click here to view).
• All Remote Choice Learning 2020 students will continue to complete their learning virtually.

Dear KCS Families and Employees,

At tonight's (8/3/20) Board of Education called meeting, the Board approved the KCS Framework for Opening the 2020-21 School Year - Operations Manual.  

• The Board approved the operations plan (linked below) by a vote of 3 (Hyche, Upshaw, Welch) - 2 (Byers, Golden).
  • Major components of the plan include:
    • First student day: Monday, August 10, 2020.
    • All face-to-face students will start the year with virtual instruction on Monday, August 10, 2020 (until further notice).
    • Students who have previously selected Remote Choice Learning 2020 will remain virtual, as planned.  
  • Ongoing school operations will be decided based on a review of health data and guidance from groups such as administration, the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, and the Tennessee Department of Health.
  • If data indicates a decrease from substantial spread to minimal-to-moderate spread, face-to-face students will return to school for in-person instruction.  Board members expressed a desire to review data and current status information at the September Board meeting.  All Board members and Dr. Moorhouse expressed the ultimate desire to return students to in-person instruction while maintaining the safest possible environment for students and staff. 
  • KCS will continue to evaluate as more information emerges. This will include analysis of other communities where reentry is being accomplished effectively in spite of substantial spread.

Please take a moment to watch Kingsport City Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Moorhouse provide an update on where the district is in regard to reopening school on Monday, August 3, 2020 and when you will receive communication on those processes and procedures.