MOBILE, Ala. — Students at schools across the Archdiocese of Mobile walked back into classrooms Wednesday morning for the first time since March, as south Alabama’s Catholic school system reopened amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The return marked a milestone in the region’s pandemic recovery — and the start of a school year that looks unlike any before it. Teachers and staff are watching closely for any students showing symptoms of COVID-19 as classes resume.
Daily temperature checks
Under the new protocols, every student and employee will have their temperature taken with a touchless thermometer upon arrival each day. Anyone recording a fever higher than 100.4 degrees will not be allowed to enter the building.
Schools are also limiting social contact between students and staff in ways administrators described as feasible and practical, while all campuses have stepped up cleaning routines. Hand sanitizer will be readily available throughout the buildings.
The Archdiocese of Mobile operates Catholic schools across south Alabama, including McGill-Toolen Catholic High School and elementary campuses throughout Mobile County. Public school systems in the region staggered their own reopening plans that same month as officials balanced instruction against public health guidance.