MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Tennessee leaders at both the state and local level met in a virtual public forum Tuesday night to give more information on recent decisions and plans for the future.
Gov. Bill Lee opened the forum by providing insight on a recent boost in testing and supplies, which are leading the state to fast-track reopening.
“Testing is one of the most important things we can do,” Gov. Lee said. “Tennessee was one of the first five states in the country to start COVID-19 testing, and we’re one of the top 10 states right now.”
Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) complimented Shelby County’s plan of prioritizing science but still urged people to take caution.
“The key thing that people need to consider as the economy starts to reopen, is that nothing has changed about COVID-19,” Akbari said. “It’s the same dangerous virus. It has no treatment protocol that’s effective, and there is no vaccine.”
Shelby County Schools Superintendent Joris Ray was one of other local leaders who spoke in the forum.
He said he’s pleased with how the district is building a digital learning plan and helping with student meals while acknowledging the district’s plans for the summer and future are still a work in progress.
“We’re doing some summer recovery,” Ray said. “We’re thinking through how school will be next year.”
He continued to say those plans could include an extended-day approach or include Saturday classes.
