Protesters in Gwinnett, Georgia protest decision to start school completely online

The largest school district in the state holds a protest to go back to school in the fall.

Published: July 28, 2020 2:36pm

Updated: July 29, 2020 1:44pm

Parents, teachers, and students in Gwinnett County, Ga., are protesting officials starting the school year completely online, arguing much of the rest of the country is reopening despite the coronavirus. 

"Dollywood is open," said parent Kelly Willyard. "The grocery stores are open. The airlines are open. Corporate America is opening up, gas stations, what have you. And then we as parents feel like we just got left in the dust, and you all just figure it out."

School officials reportedly say they made the decision because Gwinnett is among the Georgia counties with the most virus cases and out of "concern for families, students and employees." 

Surrounding Cobb and Fulton counties are also reporting increases. 

"We are in that high-spread, or high-transmission, section right now," said Chris Ragsdale, superintendent of the Cobb County School District. "And we as an organization, cannot add to the transmission rate increasing."

Parent opinions vary by zip code, and whether or not they can afford childcare or private tutoring.

 

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