WIS hosts Back-to-School Digital Town Hall as debate over reopening intensifies

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - WIS spoke with leaders from the Midlands about what school may look like this fall for students and teachers.

The WIS Back-to-School Digital Town Hall came the same day as Gov. Henry McMaster’s announcement that he wants all public schools to allow in-person learning five days a week starting Sept. 8, along with virtual learning.

State Superintendent Molly Spearman disagrees with the governor and believes schools should focus on the safety of children and teachers when making their decisions.

Guests who participated in the town hall included:

• Dr. Robin Coletrain, Principal, W. A. Perry Middle School, Richland District One
• Dr. Baron Davis, Superintendent, Richland District Two
• Lisa Ellis, Founder and board member of SCforEd, also a teacher
• Dr. Charles King, Principal, Wateree Elementary School, Kershaw County School District
• Dr. Lauren Matthews, M.D., FAAP, Lexington Pediatric Practice
• Dr. Gregory Little, Superintendent of Lexington One

Watch the full discussion in the video above.

Another Back-to-School Digital Town Hall is scheduled with different school and medical leaders for Wednesday, July 22. Mark your calendars!

• ‘I’m very nervous’: Parents react to whether they will send their kids back to school in the fall
• McMaster says virtual learning is ‘not as good’ as he pushes for schools to reopen 5 days a week
• SC state superintendent disagrees with governor on plan to reopen schools
• Richland Two expects to begin school virtually, adjust as coronavirus cases come down
• Educators determine how, when to reopen schools in the Midlands

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