Thousands of Seminole County students head back to school, some digital learners experience issues

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Thousands of students in Seminole County wrapped up their first day of school Monday.

Many students entering the new Pinecrest Elementary School of Innovation on Monday morning were wearing face masks in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Once on campus, students will have to wear masks unless they’re eating lunch or at recess.

READ: Seminole County Public Schools passes face covering mandate for all students, staff members, contractors while on school property

As the students returned, the coronavirus kept two teachers at an elementary school in Altamonte Springs out of the classroom.

Things went smoothly overall, but there were some connection issues for those at home using Seminole Connect. 

District officials said they believe things will get better as the days go on.

READ: How school meals for remote learning will work in your area

Approximately 44% of the students are returning to the classroom. Katrina Thompson said it was time.

“I’m feeling that it’s time to try and figure out how to get the world back in motion and I’m happy to bring her,” Thompson said.

The rest are taking classes through Seminole County Virtual School and Seminole Connect, which replaced distance learning.

“We’ve been working and improving and fine-tuning that work since March, so our families that chose Seminole Connect will have a better product than what we had fourth quarter,” Superintendent Walt Griffin said.

Watch: ‘Back to School: What Parents Need to Know’: 9 things we learned

At Altamonte Springs Elementary School, two teachers have been quarantined after possibly being exposed to COVID-19. 

A district spokesperson said they are using substitutes until they return.

The district is allowing student enrolled in the “save my seat” virtual school or Seminole Connect to pick up breakfast and lunch at 11 schools. Click here to read more.

Cox Media Group