A group of new teachers at Riverdale, as well as the veteran staff members, are facing many new challenges as the Coronavirus-19 Pandemic school year begins.

The new staff members gathered for a photograph last week in front of the elementary school front entrance, observing pandemic social distancing recommendations.

District Administrator Jon Schmidt noted many challenges are being faced by Riverdale administrators, school board members, teachers, children and parents as classes get underway with 5-day face-to-face teaching as well as virtual on-line offerings. On Wednesdays classes will end at noon.

He said whatever the type of classes preferred, the Internet and computers will be important learning tools as the district works to educate the children and keep them safe. He said masks will be required and as many classes as possible will be held outdoors, such as physical education and music. He noted the district enrollment count will drop as some parents prefer to home–school their children during this unusual year.