Local

Phase One: Thousands of students return to face-to-face learning in Cobb County today

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Thousands of school kids in Cobb County will go back to class for face-to-face learning for the first time since the pandemic started.

We want to walk you through what the county is doing to prepare: Pre-K through 5th graders go back to the classroom Monday.

Everyone will have to wear a mask inside.

Channel 2 Action News spoke to parents who say they want the best for their kids, but also admit it’s a “tricky spot to be in.”

Parents Emily and Mike Albuquerque will send their daughter back to the first grade this morning at Argyle Elementary School in Smyrna after nearly two months virtual learning at home.

[COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Plans for returning to school this fall]

“But it is challenging, challenging for all of us,” Emily Albuquerque said.

The family chose face-to-face with mixed emotions and the wish for more flexibility instead of one decision for the rest of the semester.

But they like the district’s updated plan and requirement that all wear masks.

“We know that our daughter will learn best in a classroom and that she misses that social interaction. But there’s also a risk there because it’s kids,” Emily Albuquerque said.

President of Cobb County Association of Educators says she’s been contacted by more than 100 teachers concerned enough that they may not return. She said that “teachers are terrified.”

“Something is going to slip somewhere and that is detrimental to the students,” said Connie Jackson, President of Cobb County Association of Educators.

All teachers will have students in class, and a camera and mic set up to teach remotely at the same time.

“I think she’ll have a good first day. Just wish it was a little less scary,” Emily Albuquerque said.

Monday is just phase one for elementary.

The plan is for middle schools to return to face-to-face in two weeks, and the high schools to re-open the first week of November.