Local school systems and COVID-19 health metrics will determine how and when they’ll reopen. Maryland has approved plans for all of its 24 public school systems to bring back at least some students for in-person instruction this fall. Although the statewide positivity rate has been under 5 per cent since June 25th, Governor Larry Hogan says there is no rush to force all students into classrooms. Also announced yesterday: fall sports can begin October 7th, in preparation for play, beginning October 27th. The Governor says allowing fall sports to start next month marks another important step in the state’s recovery from the pandemic.