Normally, LarryInFishers.com podcast recordings are done in person at my  insistence.  However, in the era of social distancing, I agreed to start conducting interviews via telephone.

My first such podcast featured HSE School Board President Michelle Fullhart and Superintendent Allen Bourff.  Both had a lot to say.

With school buildings closed and e-learning in full swing, after some initial glitches, the e-learning system appears to be running as well as could be expected.  As things stand now, teachers are delivering the e-learning lessons Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday each week.  Monday and Friday are treated as building closure days, with Governor Eric Holcomb allowing up to 20 such days for the remainder of the school year.  Dr. Bourff says systems are up Monday and Friday if students choose to do homework on Monday or Friday.

Fullhart praised the district’s teaching staff, which changed their way of teaching in a matter of hours.  Dr. Bourff says the administration is working on “hot spots” allowing Internet access to students without a home connection, with some already in place.

Hourly employees are being paid their regular wages, even though classes are not in session.  All hourly workers are on call during work hours and many have been called to work.  Bourff says this will continue as long as the district can support the policy financially.

What about the graduation ceremony scheduled for May 30th?  If it cannot happen on that date due to social distancing, Fullhart is in favor of having the graduation ceremony wherever it can be held, possibly in June, July or early August, in the football field facilities if needed.  She believes this year’s senior class deserves a chance to graduate with their friends after 13 years in the school system.

President Fullhart and Superintendent Bourff had a lot more to say in my podcast interview, which you can access using the link below.