Christian County Public Schools Superintendent Chris Bentzel did not release his recommendation, but noted schools have the option of returning on Jan. 4, while the state wants districts to wait until Jan. 11.
Large gatherings such as Christmas parties in homes could further elevate the virus's spread and prolong virtual learning for students, Chris Bentzel agreed.
The judges also noted Beshear's arguments that Kentucky is "particularly vulnerable" to the pandemic because the state “leads the nation in children living with relatives other than their parents — including grandparents and great-grandparents, who are especially vulnerable to the disease."
The governor argued that his order applied equally to public and private schools, but U.S. District Judge Greg Van Tatenhove said the Sixth Circuit court has said regulation of religious activities must follow "the least restrictive way."
Superintendent Chris Bentzel listed several reasons for the switch but discounted the possibility that schools being in session could be playing a part in the county’s rising coronavirus incidence rate.