Those who believe schools instantly grind to a halt when the summer months arrive likely have not been to any schools in Shelby County over the past few weeks.

Although classes are out for a few months, local schools have not slowed down at all.

Shelby County School System students who needed a little extra help this summer have greatly benefited from the A Plus standards recover, a software program allowing students to take an assessment and complete lessons based on standards that the schools have used for the past several years, as well as direct instruction in the subject matter and weekly sessions designed to “foster positive social skills.”

During a Shelby County Board of Education meeting Last week, Shelby County Schools Middle School Coordinator Jenni Goolsby praised the 20-day program, and said the new approach helped to prepare participating students for the upcoming school year.

“It was a much richer experience for them,” Goolsby said. “These kids just needed some one-on-one instruction and they really flourished.”

Elsewhere in the Shelby County School System last week, school resource officers, administrators and teachers who serve on school safety teams gathered at Chelsea’s Forest Oaks Elementary School to make sure they are prepared for the worst-case scenario.

Through the training, participants defined the role of school resource officers, reviewed current trends in school safety and reviewed active shooter profiles. The training was part of the school system’s safe schools initiative, a comprehensive plan covering safety at all county schools and fostering collaboration between schools and local law enforcement agencies.

The Alabaster City School System recently celebrated its first birthday, and is making big plans for the future, including a new high school, renovations to existing school buildings and major upgrades to Larry Simmons Stadium.

ACS has been holding a summer camp for the past several weeks, and is making plans to roll out its first pre-kindergarten and academy programs.

Last week, the newly formed Pelham City School System marked a major milestone when it finalized its separation from the Shelby County School system on July 1.

Over the next several weeks, PCS leaders will be working quickly to make their mark on the city’s schools as they move toward the first day of classes in August.

The bells may be silent in schools across Shelby County this the summer, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty going on.

The editorial is the opinion of the Shelby County Reporter editorial board.