The state’s advice on preparing for back to school in Alabama

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) — School leaders want students in Alabama to stay healthy and stay sharp in the classroom as they make their return to the classroom this week.

They said there are a few things to know as students take on another year of learning.

“We’re excited for what we have going on in Greene County, and we’re looking forward to an excellent start of the year and an excellent year this year,” said Greene County Schools Superintendent Corey Jones.

Jones said around 900 students will return to classrooms in his district on Wednesday. He said teachers have been preparing, and reducing chronic absenteeism is a big focus.

“Making sure our students are at school every day, on time, ready to learn, and we need our parents to help in that process,” Jones said.

Before students make that return, the Alabama Department of Public Health said it’s a good idea for them to get a physical, even if they are up to date on vaccinations.

Dr. Wes Stubblefield with the ADPH said to make sure your child is growing properly.

“Make sure that they get if they’re doing sports, their pre-participation physical done,” Stubblefield said. “Make sure that they’re mental health is in line. Make sure that they have updated medications if they have any medications that they use at school for learning, like ADHD medicines or others.”

Emery Kidd, the UniServ director with the Alabama Education Association, said teachers are prepared to serve students from all walks of life.

“They’re not only prepared to handle the traditional student but also just to fill the gap on the nontraditional student, even homeless,” Kidd said. “So there’s a big push right now to make sure students are in the classroom from day one.”

Gov. Kay Ivey encouraged students to make it their strongest year yet.

“Be brave enough to fail and try again,” Ivey said. “Because one day, someone just might look back and say, ‘That student changed Alabama.'”

Ivey said strong students lead to a strong Alabama.