Gov. Polis visits Patriot Elementary School to discuss COVID-19 safety

FOUNTAIN, Colo. (KRDO) -- Gov. Jared Polis joined education officials Tuesday at a school in Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 to speak about safety protocols amid the coronavirus pandemic.

He began the visit by reading to a first grade class, then holding a roundtable discussion outside to abide by social distancing guidelines.

The governor visited Patriot Elementary on Fort Carson for a discussion about the success of opening schools earlier this month and how the district is working with local public health authorities to keep students safe.

"I'm really excited to see Patriot Elementary go back in safe way," Polis said.

The district opened to in-person learning in August phasing in students by grade level throughout the first few weeks.

"We know this year will be a little different, but I think with the steps Patriot has taken you can minimize disruptions to the schedule," Polis said.

Just like parents, teachers also experienced some aprehension.

"I spent the entire summer apprehensive about what we were going to do. I wanted to come back, but I didn't want to come back," one teacher said.

As the school-year gets well under way, teachers said they've already felt at ease.

"They've definitely created the safe environment for me to come into work very comfortable and when I feel comfortable, that resonates onto the students and they feel comfortable too, as well," said Kindergarten teacher, Olivia Lee.

During the discussion, Polis said the education of kids can't be sacrificed, promising to protect students, staff and parents no matter what.

"When there is a case or an outbreak at a school, we will prioritize a testing surge to be available for all the families involved at that site," he said.