Plans still up in the air as Roanoke County delays vote on start of school year

Board will now have more time to discuss options

ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. – It’s going to be a bit longer until we know when school will begin for Roanoke County students.

The Roanoke County School Board delayed its vote on the start of the upcoming school year to allow more time to discuss options and to allow for additional citizen input.

“The union would be in favor of the plan as it was presented,” said Tim Summers. He is the President of the Roanoke County Education Association. “We’re concerned that students may become sick and take it home to their families. That staff may become sick and they may die.”

Originally, students were scheduled to return to school on Aug. 13.

The July 2 meeting will be held at Northside High School’s auditorium at 6 p.m. to allow for more people to attend.

Meetings are open to the public.

Chiquanika Tucker has high school and elementary-aged students in the school system. She prefers remote learning.

“It’s very concerning due to the fact the numbers continue to rise and the children being in such a small area together,” said Tucker.

Those who do attend Thursday’s meeting will be required to practice social distancing.


About the Authors:

McKinley Strother joined the WSLS 10 News team in June 2020. He anchors 10 News at 6 and 11 on Saturdays and Sundays and you'll also catch him reporting during the week.