Central Coast school districts make adjustments as students return in-person

CENTRAL COAST, Calif. (KION)  As students slowly begin to return to in-person instruction, schools must adapt to keep everyone safe.

Gonzales Unified School District said lunch will be eaten at the end of the day, whether the student chooses to eat home or at school. Students will also have the choice of eating indoors or outdoors. 

“We always want to make sure our children can learn at their optimum level,” said GUSD Director of Nutrition Services Alvin Vitug. “And we know that nutrition is one of those factors. That helps them with that, with learning to their fullest potential.”

Snacks will also be given during recess, another activity that will also be different. Usually, children learn to share but now they'll be encouraged to use their own equipment and keep their distance at recess.

"It is quite difficult with the pandemic going on. But we're trying to keep it in a safe manner,” said Vitug. “If they have any equipment with them, they have their own equipment. So they're not sharing equipment with other children."

In a statement sent to KION the Pajaro Valley Unified School District wrote, "Given that students will be in class 90 minutes, we are not offering meals at school. However, our Food and Nutrition Services Department has added a midday pick-up time at 13 of the 14 meal distribution locations. Instruction and activities while at school will take place following health and safety guidelines."