Two elementary school sites in Seminole have moved to distance learning due to “large and growing” numbers of COVID-19 related illnesses and symptoms in staff and students.

According to Superintendent Dr. Bob Gragg, Wilson Elementary and Northwood Elementary implemented distance learning effective today, Sept. 1 and will remain in that mode until Friday, Sept. 10.

“There is nothing more important to Seminole Public Schools than the health and safety of our students, our staff, and their families,” Gragg said in a statement released Tuesday afternoon. “If you or your child is ill, please know that we hope you concentrate on getting better, not on schoolwork. Make-up work will be accepted late, and much grace will be given.”

According to Gragg, all other campuses, including the Seminole Early Learning Center, will continue learning in person. School work packets will be sent home with grades 1-5 and Chrome books will be sent home for the 6th grade.

For students who were absent or quarantined Tuesday, arrangements for the pick-up of packets will be announced soon, Gragg said.

School meals will be distributed from 10 a.m. – 12 noon on Friday, Sept. 3 and Tuesday, Sept. 7. at the Northwood campus. Four days’ worth of meals will be distributed both days.

A system assessment tool and COVID-19 related information is posted on the district’s website (www.sps.k12. ok.us). Those with questions or concerns should call 405- 382-5085. Dial extension 201 for the Wilson office, 301 for the Northwood office or 601 for the district office.

Wilson shifted to distance learning Friday, Aug. 27 due to a large number of illness-related absences. The district also postponed the annual 6 ^th grade trip to Camp Goddard, which was slated for this week, after a student tested positive for COVID-19.

Students are expected to return to in person learning on Monday, Sept. 13