NEWS/TALK 101.5 FM & WNWS.COM visited with Stuart Hirstein, University School of Jackson’s head of school for a Question & Answer session to discuss COVID-19, online classes and graduation.

Question: After USJ closed the school due to COVID-19, how long did it take before you had the students taking classes online?

Answer: We closed while we were on spring break. We decided to extend spring break by two days and then began with online classes – so we actually had it up in two days.

Question: How is this working for the students and instructors?

Answer: So far it is working well. Our faculty have been absolutely amazing with this. The feedback from students and faculty has been great.

Question: Have USJ students been taking classes online before the pandemic, and what are the possibilities this continues in the future?

Answer: This is the first time that we have initiated online classes at USJ. As long as we are in the current envioronment, we will remain online. I can think of using online classes for things like school closures for weather, etc.

Question: A number of national events – Kentucky Derby, Indy 500 – are held in May, but they have been postponed. We’re thinking USJ usually holds graduation ceremonies in May. What does USJ have planned for graduation?

Answer: We haven’t done anything with respect to graduation yet. We are waiting to see how this plays out.

Question: Are your senior students concerned they may not be able to leave home for college in the fall?

Answer: I am not sure about this. I haven’t heard this is an issue yet.

Question: Have you been in discussion with parents who have children scheduled to enroll at USJ for kindergarten – or earlier – this fall?

Answer: I have not. We are still planning on business as usual until further notice.

(PHOTO: Stuart Hirstein)

David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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