Here marks the creation of my very first newsletter and I feel I’ve reached a new professional peak. Today is also my first time covering a JCPS school board election. I had no idea the kiddos don’t go to school at election time (that is not how it’s done in Iowa or Alabama).
With four seats up for grabs, the dynamic of the board could vastly change depending on tonight’s results.
More:JCPS school board elections 2022: Who is the money behind the candidates?
Four incumbents representing areas in the West End, northeast Louisville, south central Louisville and Newburg are hoping to secure their seats, and a lot of money has been spent in hopes of ensuring they do. In total, more than $800,000 was spent on campaigns in this election, with the majority of the money coming from Better Schools Kentucky, the political arm of the teachers union.
Unfamiliar with the candidates? Learn more on each here.
What is a tripledemic?
A scary, scary word.
More than two dozen districts across the state have closed their schools this month because too many students and staff came down sick – and health professionals believe the situation is likely to worsen.
As winter nears, an increase in COVID-19 cases is expected, along with the flu, and an increase in RSV cases is already stretching hospitals in some areas of the country. That trifecta is the tripledemic.
RSV, flu, COVID-19 are rising in children. Is this a tripledemic’?
Thus far, JCPS has not announced any closures – but there are a “few schools with elevated instances of flu,” district spokeswoman Carolyn Callahan said.
Here’s a list of concerning signs of symptoms to watch for in your sick child:
- Irritability
- Fussiness
- Poor appetite, especially decreased liquid intake
- Decreased urination/number of wet diapers
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Low oxygen level
What else is going on?
News outside of the election is scarce this week, though my colleague Mandy McLaren was able to do a follow on her “Between the Lines” investigation that recently published.
The investigation showed how Kentucky is overwhelmed with massive reading struggles and and her follow highlighted one community that has committed to helping the problem.
Covington launched a comprehensive literacy effort called “Read Ready Covington,” which launched in 2018.
“There are some things that schools alone can’t do,” Covington Mayor Joseph Meyer said. “We want to give our youngest all the support we can do to help them lead meaningful, productive lives.”
Focusing on children from birth through the third grade, the initiative has city government, schools, libraries, childcare centers, local businesses and the public health department each playing a role.
Learn more:Read Ready Kentucky offers science-backed program to families for free
Homework?
Talk to me! I want to hear what stories you’d like covered. I want to hear about the issues impacting your family. I want to hear about the things that you feel could help. My ears are open, let me know your thoughts. Email me, Krista Johnson, at KJohnson3@courierjournal.com
Talk soon!
