Gloucester County Public Schools is at hard work preparing for a return to in-person learning five days a week for all students beginning Monday, with more than 60 new teachers joining the staff.

According to Dr. Walter Clemons, this year’s budget is based on an enrollment of 4,850 students, but that number may fluctuate. The school division will have a 10-day and a 30-day count of students to get a more solid enrollment number.

“We are hopeful we will exceed those numbers,” said Clemons.

There will be no remote learning options through GCPS this year. Students grades six through 12 had the option of applying to participate in Virtual Virginia, but the program is not affiliated with GCPS. According to Clemons, 40-45 families applied for the program but only 20-30 were accepted.

“We’re hopeful that we can offer in-person learning through the pandemic,” said Clemons.

Students will be required to sit three feet apart and wear masks regardless of vaccination status as part ...