Although COVID-19 leaves us with much doubt, one thing is certain. Ellsworth’s administration is committed to providing their students with the ability to learn.

In a recent survey to the parents in the Ellsworth School District, 90.1% of parents answered that they preferred in-person instruction for the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year, while 9.9% preferred virtual instruction. 95% of families reported having internet service at home through a provider or hotspot.

“The largest barrier to learning at home reported was that the child did not respond well to online learning and requires social/emotional support. This was followed closely by parent inability to supervise due to childcare or work issues,” said Superintendent Barry Cain.

“The survey provided us with a general view of people’s wishes for the fall. We know that there are many concerns regarding social distancing, how we will provide education for those choosing an online option, building cleaning practices, busing procedures, food service procedures, face covering policies, etc., that all needs to be addressed prior to any return to school,” Cain said. “In the coming weeks, we will continue to develop specific procedures and work closely with the public health to finalize our summer school operation and general school opening. We will be providing information in many ways to best inform the public.”