Dear Oak Ridgers,

We, the Board of Education, Superintendent and Executive Directors, are writing this letter to the entire community, not just those individuals who have students in our school system.

It goes without saying that all of our lives have been impacted in some way by COVID-19.  From the day school life was suspended last March, we began preparing for what school would be like, when and if we did reopen.  Opening day was not perfect, but as time went on, with the dedication of our administrators and staff, we have been able to give our students a virtual or in-person learning situation.  There have been peaks and valleys along the way, but our students are adapting to the unfortunate restrictions on learning.  We all know that nothing is better for our students than having face to face opportunities with our teachers.

From the beginning, the school district has followed the CDC, Anderson County Department of Health, and the Tennessee Department of Health guidelines and then some.  Our school community has risen to the challenge and have been examples of what needs to be done while in school.  Our Maintenance Department has led the way in maintaining healthy and safe conditions in our schools.

It is essential that those who have children keep their students at home in the following circumstances:

  • If a person in the household has been exposed to a person confirmed to have COVID-19;
  • If the student or household member is awaiting COVID-19 test results;
  • If the student has a fever or flu-like symptoms; or
  • If the student has been confirmed to have COVID-19.

Poor decision making has needlessly exposed students and staff and led to a recent rise in cases and quarantines.

In order for us to maintain and increase our educational and extra-curricular activities, we are now asking the entire community to do what our students and teachers do to strive to stay healthy.   Wear your mask, social distance, wash your hands, and understand that activities you participate in outside of the school day can easily jeopardize our ability to continue in-person education.

We understand that extracurricular sports and activities are important to our students, but it is of vital importance that parents permit only those activities where proper precautions are taken.

Please help us to help our children and help our community.

  • Keys Fillauer, Board Chair
  • Laura McLean, Vice Chair
  • Angi Agle
  • Ben Stephens
  • Erin Webb
  • Dr. Bruce Borchers, Superintendent
  • Bruce Lay, Ex. Director of School Leadership
  • Dr. Kelly Williams, Ex. Director of  Teaching and Learning
  • Dr. Holly Cross, Supervisor of Career Readiness and Communications