Back in session for a month, Cortes Island School has been able to reopen its doors to parents and guest presenters.

Brent Wilken, in his 10th year as teaching principal at the school, said that last year “there was a really painful disconnect between families and the school without being able to allow people into the building” due to COVID-19 restrictions. As of September 2021, parents can once again come in, as long as they are masked and sign in on entry. 

As a result, hot lunches are being prepared twice a month by parents, a guest art instructor takes a turn with each group on Fridays, and more opportunities are on the horizon. The total of 43 students at the school is grouped into three divisions:

• 16 students in the K-1 classroom
• 18 students in the grades 2-5 classroom
• 9 students in the senior class of grades 5-9

Jeramie Peacock, chair of the Parent Advisory Committee, said they are discussing having a science fair and a winter festival celebration, in order to “bring folks and their interest back towards the school” and potentially increase enrolment numbers in the senior division.

The school has also traditionally functioned as a community recreational center, and health restrictions will likely allow for youth groups to return this month. However, adult sports groups would need to show proof of vaccination, which the school may not have the means to monitor.