MCCTC to Resume Classes Aug. 24 with Blended Model

CANFIELD, Ohio – The Mahoning County Career and Technical Center and Valley STEM Academy will resume classes Aug. 24 with a blended model that will have half of its student body in the building at once and the other half taking classes remotely.

The two groups will alternate which days they’re taking in-person classes – one group will be on site Monday and Wedesnday, the other on Tuesday and Thursday. Both groups will work remotely on Fridays.

“We have spent a great deal of time planning for this and feel very confident we are making the right decision,” said superintendent John Zehentbauer in a statement. “ We are a unique facility that focuses on hands on learning and preparing our students for today’s workforce, our students need to be in the building.”

The school’s administration has worked with stakeholders since May to develop the plan and surveyed the school board, students, parents, staff and other focus groups to determine its return-to-school plans. 

All students and staff are required to wear masks or face shields on campus and all students will be spaced at least six feet apart when possible in labs and classrooms. Hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed in all classrooms and all entering the school will be required to do health assessments and temperature checks as they enter the building. Only essential visitors will be allowed inside the building.

Students and staff are strongly encouraged to stay home if they feel sick. 

The school’s full return-to-class plan can be read HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.