PARKERSBURG — Catholic schools in West Virginia are planning to have all schools in session with a five-day week by Aug. 24, officials with the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston said Monday.

“We are working with our principals and pastors to lay out a plan to have their students in school five days a week,” Superintendent Mary Ann Deschaine said. “As we move forward with these plans we have been and will continue to take exhaustive measures to keep the health and safety of our children and staff a critical priority.”

The Diocese’s Department of Catholic Schools will follow federal, state and county mandates and will be ready for distance learning “without hesitation at basically the flip of the switch,” Deschaine said.

Schools are taking measures for a healthy and secure classroom, she said.

Classrooms will look different, she said. Furnishings will be removed to make more room for safe distancing between students and teachers.

Everyone in the school building will be trained on proper cleaning procedures.

Enhanced e-learning and distance engagement training will be provided for teachers prior to the start of school. Students in kindergarten through 10th grade can take the Northwest Evaluation Association assessment to identify where extra help is needed and help staff develop individualized educational plans.

Schools will contact families with enrichment opportunities to be held over the summer, Deschaine said.

While each building will announce its own start date, all Catholic schools will be in session by Aug. 24, Deschaine said.

Catholic school offices across the state will continue registrations for the 2020-2021 school year through the summer. Contact the local Catholic school for more information or call the Department of Catholic Schools Office at 304-233-0880 for assistance.