Collier County Public Schools releases back-to-school video

Collier County Public Schools released a “First Look At School Year” video that shows how it plans to protect students at schools during the pandemic. From masks to hand sanitizer to social distancing, the experience will be a lot different.

We spoke to a parent in Collier County on Monday about how she feels about the upcoming school year and planned safety measures.

Eight-year-old Kaiden Durden is an energetic kid. “He loves sports. He’s always outside playing,” said Kate Durden, Kaiden’s mom.

Kate is glad to see her son will still get to go to recess safely when he returns to the classroom in three weeks.

“That’s important, especially for the little kids,” Kate said. “They need to get their energy out.”

Kate viewed the video released by CCPS over the weekend. In three and a half minutes, it shows what in-person class will be like with COVID-19 restrictions in place.

The video features school buses, safety measures, one-way stairwells, plexiglass and socially distanced desks.

It also highlights notable changes from the school district’s original plan: Eyeglasses are now optional, and lunch won’t be eaten at desks, but in a cafeteria or outside.

“I didn’t know what to expect, to be honest, but it’s good to see that the district is taking measures to accommodate the kids in the best way possible,” Kate said.

Kate did have at least one concern about the CCPS plan explained in the video she said she is staying positive.

“The biggest thing I would say is having the kids wear the masks and keeping them on,” she said. “Because I know that, for my son, he can’t keep it on.”

The back-to-school video also goes over the virtual back-to-school options – eCollier Academy and classroom connect.

MORE: CCPS – First Look At School Year 2020-2021