The Alamance-Burlington School System Board of Education unanimously approved memorandums of understanding and contracts with area law enforcement agencies Tuesday to have a School Resource Officer at every ABSS school. The District is working with Burlington Police Department, Mebane, Graham, Elon, Haw River, and the Alamance County Sheriff's Department. A combination of state and local funds will be used to cover the $2.7 million dollar cost.
“I strongly believe in the work these officers will be doing in our schools this year to provide a safe learning environment. As sworn law enforcement officers, they are highly trained to diffuse situations that may arise on a school campus and will work daily to build relationships with students, their families, staff, and the community,” said Dr. Dain Butler, ABSS Superintendent.
COVID UPDATE
In other action, the Board approved the 2022-23 COVID-19 plan. There will be no contract tracing, group notifications or school-wide notifications this year since the state has lifted all mandates. ABSS will post weekly numbers of students and staff who test positive on its COVID dashboard, report to the Alamance Health Department, and offer free testing at Sellars-Gunn Educational Center.
Masks will continue to be optional at all ABSS facilities however, if a student or staff member tests positive, they will be required by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to remain home for at least 5 days and wear a mask for at least five days upon returning to school. Additionally those who have a mask exemption or can’t wear a mask upon returning will need to stay home for the full 10 days. Supervisors will be required to accommodate staff with mask exemptions during this extended window. Students will also be given an opportunity to make up any missed work as normal during an illness.
CUMMINGS INVITATION TO SUGAR BOWL
Cummings High School was also celebrated at Tuesday’s Meeting. The Board approved a request from Cummings High School to attend the Allstate Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, Louisiana, December 30, 2022 - January 2, 2023. The band was selected to perform with the top bands from across the nation. They will be performing at the halftime show finale. This year’s band includes students from Cummings High and Broadview Middle School.