As Alabama students begin to kick off a fresh academic year with the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, Governor Kay Ivey on Monday released a back-to-school video message.

“As classes begin around the state, I want to encourage all of you — teachers, school administrators, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, coaches, parents and students — to stay motivated and safe this school year,” the governor began.

“We’re all in this together, no matter if you’re in the classroom, learning from home or doing a mix of the two,” she continued. “There will be many challenges and changes to the activities we are used to doing, but the goal remains the same: to provide a safe learning environment for quality education.”

The governor’s office also released “Be Smart” (“Smart” being an acronym as applied) tips for students and teachers.

“We need everyone to be smart and do your part to ensure we can get things somewhat back to normal as quickly and as safely as possible,” Ivey said. “That means committing yourself to staying focused, giving every assignment your best shot and taking all safety precautions.”

“Let’s work together, Alabama, and make this a productive school year,” she concluded.

Watch:

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Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn