COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) – The Colleton County School District (CCSD) announced plans to temporarily transition to online learning for all students starting Jan. 13.

The school district says the continued spread of the omicron variant and COVID-19’s impact on available school bus drivers and substitutes contributed to the decision.

CCSD plans to return to learn in person on Jan. 20, but district officials will reassess the situation the day prior to determine if an extension of the virtual learning period will be necessary.

The district will provide distance learning opportunities and breakfast/lunch opportunities during the closure. 

Students will be able to use district-issued Chromebooks. Those without access to the Internet will be provided with e-learning packets.

CCSD will distribute district-issued devices Wednesday.

The district plans to release further information regarding individual schools and information on school meal pick-ups Wednesday.

Students who need to pick up their district-issued devices will be able to do so Wednesday from their schools. More information will be released by individual schools.

Where possible, athletic/band/extracurricular activities will continue during the e-learning/virtual learning period. Afterschool activities are canceled.

All district employees who have not been placed in isolation/quarantine will report to their work locations. Schools and buses will be comprehensively disinfected while the district is operating virtually.

CCSD says further updates will be released to families through phone dialers, mass emails, local/regional media and the district website.