Jefferson County Public Schools has announced a detailed, multi-stage plan for students and staff to return to Evergreen High School following a recent shooting incident. The plan, developed with input from the school community, prioritizes mental health support and a gradual re-entry process over the next two weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Evergreen High School will reopen in phases, beginning with staff-only preparation days from September 22-24.
- An open house for students and families is scheduled for Wednesday evening, September 24, with extensive mental health resources available.
- Students will have a gradual return without classes on September 25-26, followed by shortened academic days starting September 29.
- The plan is based on survey data showing a strong community desire for peer connection and safety updates.
- A full-time school resource officer has been assigned, and minor physical changes have been made to the campus.
A Community-Informed Reopening Strategy
Jefferson County Public Schools officials emphasized that the return plan was created after careful consideration of feedback from the Evergreen High School community. The district conducted a survey to understand the needs of students, families, and staff before finalizing the schedule.
"Thank you for your patience as we took time last week to listen and learn about what our students, staff and families need as we move forward," the district stated in a press release. This collaborative approach aims to create a supportive environment for everyone returning to campus.
Survey Guides District's Decisions
The district's decisions were heavily influenced by survey responses. According to the data released, a significant majority of students and families felt ready to return to school within a week, but with adjustments to the normal schedule. The need for social connection was a dominant theme, with over two-thirds of students and families highlighting its importance for well-being.
The Phased Return Schedule
The district has structured the return over several days to ease the transition for students and staff. The process is designed to be slow and deliberate, allowing time for emotional and psychological adjustment.
Phase 1: Staff Preparation and Campus Walk-Through
The initial phase focuses on preparing the staff and reintroducing students to the building. From Monday, September 22, to Wednesday, September 24, only staff will be on campus to prepare for the students' return.
On Wednesday evening, September 24, the school will host a structured open house from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event allows students and their families to walk through the school at their own pace. To manage crowd size, 11th and 12th graders are asked to attend from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., while 9th and 10th graders are scheduled for 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Comprehensive Support During Open House
During the Wednesday evening event, the school will provide extensive support, including mental health professionals, therapy dogs, and a dedicated wellness room. A project called "Hearts for Hope" will also be launched, encouraging attendees to write positive messages on paper hearts to be displayed around the school.
Phase 2: Gradual Student Return
Following the open house, students will begin returning to campus without academic pressure. On Thursday, September 25, and Friday, September 26, students will be back in the building, but no formal classes will be held. This period is intended to help students reconnect with peers and readjust to the school environment.
The district's survey data revealed this was a critical need. Over 66% of students and 76% of families stated that connecting with friends and peers was essential for supporting mental health.
Phase 3: Reintroduction of Classroom Learning
The final stage of the plan involves a soft launch of academic activities. On Monday, September 29, and Tuesday, September 30, the school will operate on a shortened schedule, with classroom learning taking place from 8:30 a.m. to noon. This approach allows for a gradual return to a normal academic routine.
Enhanced Safety and Campus Modifications
In addition to the phased schedule, the district has implemented several changes to enhance safety and address the trauma associated with the incident. Deputy Odie Tucker, who previously served in a part-time capacity, has been appointed as the full-time school resource officer.
"[Students] also indicated a need for regular updates on school safety," the district noted, explaining the importance of visible security measures and transparent communication.
Students will notice minor physical alterations to the school. Some areas have had tile and carpet replaced. To cover markings left by investigators, each classroom door now features a sign with the school's mascot. The district has confirmed that new doors will be installed in the future.
Ongoing Support Systems
Jefferson County Public Schools has committed to providing long-term support for the Evergreen community. Staff members are receiving specialized training to help them with trauma response and to guide students toward available resources.
The mental health services offered during the open house, including access to counselors and wellness spaces, will remain available to students and staff moving forward. The district will also provide academic support services to help students who may have fallen behind.
Community Feedback by the Numbers
The district's plan was directly shaped by quantitative feedback:
- 80% of students said they might be ready to return with timing differences.
- 84% of families agreed their child might be ready to return with an adjusted schedule.
- 75% of families indicated a return within one week was feasible.
- A desire for extracurriculars like art, music, and athletics was also noted by families as a way for students to express themselves and regain a sense of normalcy.
The comprehensive plan reflects a careful balance between resuming school operations and addressing the profound emotional needs of a community recovering from a traumatic event. The district encourages families to consult its official announcements for further details on the return process and available support services.
