COVID-19: Students excited as Saint Mary of the Assumption School reopens during pandemic

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - It was all smiles for these Santa Maria kindergarten kids sitting in their desks shaped like cars.

“Some of our desks are actually designed and decorated so our kindergarten for example has nice little jeeps to sit in," said principal Michelle Cox with Saint Mary of the Assumption School.

Cox seemed just as excited as the students for the school to reopen.

“To know that they’re willing to meet whatever guidelines are required just so they can be together is amazing,” said Cox.

Some of those guidelines include students having daily temperature checks, maintaining a four feet distance between desks and face coverings.

“Getting everyone out of the car with drop off’s took a little longer than anticipated but we know that will get faster and will be more efficient,” said Cox.

Parent Margarita Arriaga was glad to see her six-year-old son return to school Wednesday.

“Because my mom can’t help him that much and with zoom meetings and with his homework so it’s a big relief as a parent,” said Arriaga.

If the parent prefers their child to continue learning home, the school is offering live instruction feeds.

“We’ve given our parents options so whether they’re comfortable coming to campus or coming to campus or they’re not ready for an in person session all of our students can still be part of our St. Mary’s family,” said Cox.

Whether they’re "roomers" or "zoomers," the school is making sure everyone is learning.