The Elyria City

Open, honest communication 

We’re back—officially off and running for the 2020-2021 school year.

Let me begin with a simple but sincere thank you. We’re all traveling uncharted waters but
in keeping our sights set on what’s best for our students and community, and in working
with exceptional, dedicated partners we’ve accomplished much in the days, weeks and
months leading to our return to school.

Since last winter it’s been a whirlwind, to say the least, but we’re beyond delighted to
welcome students back into their neighborhood schools.

Many of these schools are all-new buildings, as you know, which adds an extra layer of
excitement to the start of the year.

There’s also the ongoing challenges we face—as a school district and as a community—with
COVID-19.

As a district, we’ve taken many steps to prepare for the physical return of staff and students.
Safety has, of course, been our leading priority through it all.

Even before the Ohio-ordered closure of schools last March, we worked hand-in-hand with
Lorain County Public Health and the Lorain County Educational Service Center to navigate
the twists and turns of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a county team of school superintendents and under the guidance of Health
Commissioner Dave Covell, we developed a guide to reopening schools that not only
accounted for risk levels but put strategies in place to lessen those risks in school settings.
Some of the direct results included new board policies that now require face coverings be
worn while on school grounds and while on buses. It also involves policies that follow social
distancing guidelines in classrooms and common areas of schools, as well as strategies to
limit the movement of students each day within the school buildings.

New cleaning protocols were established in Elyria schools that align with recommendations
by the Ohio Department of Health.

As we proceed with all these precautionary measures to limit the spread of viruses in our
schools, we must ultimately acknowledge that the possibility of transmission remains,
despite our best efforts.

When a confirmed case of COVID-19 presents in the school setting, the district will work
directly with the Lorain County Public Health system in notifying parents and staff.
Openness and good communication have been our guiding principles through this
challenging environment.

 We are working diligently each day to keep parents, staff, students and community
members informed of the many happenings within Elyria Schools. If you have any questions
or ideas about the recent school openings or other events, we welcome your inquiries and
comments at ask@elyriaschools.org

Ann Schloss

Superintendent