Many members of the ACTS Family have been working toward re-opening for this school year but it’s just not possible – yet. Many of our host sites are closed – some that had opened are now closed again because of surging virus numbers – and Springfield is in the “red zone” in terms of the number of COVID infections.
So we really had no choice but to declare a “pause.”
Due to the pandemic, we’re experiencing a “perfect storm* of sorts involving three variables:
1. Host sites that aren’t open
2. Site directors who aren’t comfortable with in-person tutoring
3. Tutors who aren’t comfortable with in-person tutoring
Unfortunately, these variables play out in various ways at various tutoring sites such that none of the sites has the working combination of being open, having a site director and having tutors.
Sadly, many families are eager for their kids to have tutoring!
Looking to the future, we have put in place things we can control:
- Protocols for arrival, tutoring and dismissal following COVID guidelines
- Conversations with site hosts about their own requirements
- Plexiglass “sneeze guards” so tutors and kids can face each other across the table
- A supply of masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes made possible by a grant from the Black Men of Greater Springfield
As soon as we get the green light – host sites open and Springfield in the virus “green zone” – we are ready to open! Pray on behalf of our children that it can be soon!