Schools are set to open Aug. 7

School system working on virus guidelines

Escambia County (Ala.) School Superintendent John Knott said Tuesday in a special meeting that public schools will start Friday, Aug. 7, following State Superintendent Eric Mackey's announcement that it is up to each school system to plan how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

As both state education and health departments continue to implement guidelines and recommended protocols and practices, Knott said school personnel and administration across the county are working together on plans for reopening the schools.

"We've allowed the athletes and students involved in extra curricular activiti...