The Vicksburg Warren School District has earned praise and accolades for plenty of reasons in recent years.

There has been the adoption, installation and excellence of performance involving the Leader in Me program. There has been the sweeping bond issue approved by the county’s voters that is enhancing and developing the learning environment for each of the district’s 7,800 students. 

But it might be the investments and decisions made over the years by current and former district leaders and trustees to invest in technology, particularly laptop computers, that is paying off today.

When other districts in the state scrambled to develop and launch an online curriculum to switch their students to when Gov. Tate Reeves suspended school operations, the Vicksburg Warren School District went to a playbook and a structure that was already in place.

In just days, teachers, administrators and staff were able to switch each of their students over to an online curriculum that has kept the children learning and the system moving forward. 

The use of online platforms, such as Google Classroom, was already a mainstay in many classes and schools, which made the move even easier.

All of this preparation and planning made what was a monumental task somewhat easier, both for the teachers and administrators and the students.

Because of their daily use of computers and the platforms, students have had an easier time transitioning. 

While there were and are still hiccups that continue to be worked through by all involved, it is easier then it would have been, and easier than what other districts who had not made the investment years ago are dealing with.

Many would agree that there is no substitute for the kind of education that can be provided with everyone in the classroom, but while our students and teachers are forced to be apart, it’s good to know that we are prepared to move online if and when needed.