Will Schools Be Open in the Next School Year?
The upcoming academic year is a topic of much debate and uncertainty, especially in light of the ongoing global pandemic. Various factors are influencing school opening policies, including region-specific guidelines and the availability of vaccines. This article explores the current landscape and potential models for school operation.
No Immediate Return to Normalcy
For the next 2 months, there is no expectation of schools opening their doors to traditional on-campus learning. Remote learning, practicals, and assessments will continue to be conducted through staggered in-person attendance to maintain social distancing and prevent any potential outbreaks.
Community College Updates
As a rising sophomore at a local community college, I have observed limited campus access and partial remote learning for the fall 2020 semester. Half-open access is available for select employees and students taking essential summer courses that cannot be transferred to an online format. This trend seems likely to continue for the fall semester.
High School Outlooks
My brother, a 8th grader, has received an email stating that schools in our district might be open. However, if schools do open, strict safety measures such as mask-wearing will be enforced. This new format will significantly alter the traditional school year experience.
Regional School Opening Plans
When and how schools will open in the next academic year is a complex and evolving question. Factors such as vaccine availability, local health conditions, and government guidelines play a crucial role. For instance, in Washington state, plans are contingent on reaching certain phase levels of the state's reopening plan.
Washington State Phase 4 Plans
To reach Phase 4, our county must first advance from its current Phase 2 status. However, the state governor has placed a delay on further advancement until at least July 28th. If our county achieves Phase 4, schools would revert to pre-pandemic conditions. However, the district's initial plan prioritizes elementary schools (K-5).
Elementary School Plan
Elementary schools are planned to operate 4 days a week, Monday through Thursday. Wednesdays will be reserved for students in need of remediation and special services, ensuring social distancing can be maintained. Class sizes will be kept small to facilitate this social distancing practice.
Secondary School Plan
Secondary schools (grades 6-8 and 9-12) will be divided into two parts: A Block and B Block. A Block students will attend face-to-face classes on Mondays and Tuesdays, while B Block students will participate in remote learning. Conversely, B Block students will have face-to-face classes on Thursdays and Fridays, while A Block students will learn remotely. Additionally, Wednesdays are reserved for those needing remediation and special services, with the rest of the students engaging in remote learning.
Full-Time Online Learning Preparedness
Out of an abundance of caution, schools are also preparing for a full-time online learning model in case traditional in-person schooling proves too risky. This dual approach ensures schools can adapt to various health and safety scenarios.
In conclusion, the school opening plans for the next academic year are highly dependent on several factors. As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, the safest and most effective methods for schooling will be determined on a region-by-region basis.