Lawrence, Johnson students return to class next week

By TONY FYFFE

BSN Editor

LOUISA — Lawrence County will be the first school district in the Big Sandy region to ring its bells when students return to the classroom next week.

The first day for students in Lawrence County is next Tuesday, Aug. 10, with Johnson County returning to the classroom the next day.

Martin County was originally poised to be the first district to start classes, on Aug. 4, but officials announced Friday that opening day would be delayed two weeks. The new start date is Aug. 18.

The school district’s Facebook page said the decision was made after “careful consideration with district stakeholders and health officials” due to the increase of new COVID-19 cases in the county.

The Paintsville Independent School District will begin classes Aug. 25, while Floyd County students return to lessons on Aug. 30.

All school districts will offer in-person classes five days a week.

Gov. Andy Beshear has recommended but not required that school districts implement universal masking for all teachers, staff, students and visitors to public schools. School officials in Lawrence, Johnson, Floyd and Martin counties say masks are optional but not required in buildings when schools open, but they are mandated on school buses.