Warren County High School and Warren County Middle School are going to distance learning beginning this Thursday, Nov. 12.

The plan is to resume in-person classes at those schools after Thanksgiving break on Monday, Nov. 30.

The remote learning plan only applies to those two schools at the moment.

“We have been hoping all school year to not have to make this decision but the safety of our people is paramount,” said Director of Schools Grant Swallows. “I am confident that these two schools have a great plan to continue learning remotely, and we will also be offering drive-through meals to students. I hope students and families will heed the warning that if we do not act now, then this will only continue over the next weeks and months. Students must resist the urge to think that school is closed and they have no responsibility. When they do that they tend to get together in groups and that is exactly what we do not need. If we want to come back to school then we must take advantage of this time away and slow the spread of this virus.”

Swallows said both WCHS and WCMS have seen rapid increases in the positive COVID cases among students. According to the district plan, when these problem areas are identified, schools will move to distance learning in order to best protect students and staff.

According to school system numbers, 50 students and 10 staff members have tested positive for the virus and 669 students are in quarantine after being exposed as of Monday, Nov. 9. Quarantined students are not positive cases. They are being isolated after exposure to a positive case.

COVID numbers are not released by school.

Swallows noted other schools in the district are experiencing lower numbers of positive cases and will continue to operate on their regular schedule. He said the school system will be monitoring those schools very closely for any rise in cases and could be sending them to remote learning at any time.

Breakfast and lunch will be available to WCHS and WCMS students at their respective schools Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parents are permitted to pick up meals for their students.

“Thank you for your patience and cooperation during a difficult time in our county and country,” said Swallows. “Please be diligent in protecting yourself and those around you by staying distanced, practicing good hygiene, and wearing a mask.”