Lexington County’s 5 public school districts cleared an important hurdle last week.

State Superintendent Molly Spearman announced approval of their reopening plans.

District plans “take into account the academic and social needs of students along with the safety precautions and protocols required,”she said.

“Every citizen can help in this effort by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, washing their hands regularly and staying at home when sick.”

Each district’s plan differs based on school sizes, enrollment numbers, available teachers, virtual learning capability, available buses, feeding facilities and other considerations.

Some private schools are opening in August.

Public schools in Lexington County plan to reopen:

• Lexington 1 - Aug. 31.

• Lexington 2 - Sept. 8.

• Lexington 3 - Sept. 4.

• Lexington 4 - Aug. 17.

• Lex-Rich 5 - Sept. 8.