CPS shifts from hybrid model to ‘phased-in’ reopening

The full version of this story appears in the August 27 print edition of the Citizen.

In a sudden reversal that surprised many families, the Canton School Committee voted 3-2 last Thursday to delay its previously approved hybrid reopening model in favor of a new phased-in approach with a likely remote start for the bulk of the K-12 student population.

An exception would be made for high needs students — students with IEPs or 504 plans or those requiring EL services — who are expected to be “all-in” from the start, attending school 4.5 days per week. Still to be determined is the reopening model for the Rodman PreK program, although Director Donna Kilday has recommended a remote start with a return to the hybrid and in-person models at a future date.

School leaders said their decision to shift to a phased-in start was based on the latest COVID-19 metrics for Canton and in consultation with local health officials. As of last Wednesday, Canton was still in the “yellow” risk category, but its average daily incidence rate had climbed to 5.3 per 100,000 — up from 4.3 per 100,000 in the week prior. For communities with a yellow rating, recent guidance from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has recommended either a hybrid or remote start (if there are extenuating circumstances).

In a letter to CPS families and staff, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Fischer-Mueller said additional details on the phased-in approach, including timelines for returning to school, will be shared at the next remote School Committee meeting scheduled for tonight, August 27, beginning at 7 p.m.

“We are all in an extremely difficult and fluid planning process that involves different considerations and shifts that affect so many,” acknowledged Fischer-Mueller. “We know that every shift has a ripple effect, and we acknowledge that it is frustrating and stressful to plan in times of uncertainty. While last week’s decision was disruptive, we know the importance of giving time for our families and staff to prepare.”

“The phase-in plan is a measured approach that balances both safety and the educational needs of our school community,” she continued. “And we have a deep understanding that our students need to return to school for social growth and connections to their peers and teachers. The timelines are important in this approach, and will be determined once other variables are defined.”

Voting in favor of Fischer-Mueller’s recommendation were School Committee members Kristin Mirliani (chair), Kristian Merenda and Nichola Gallagher, with members Charles Rae and Maureen Moran both opposed. In addition to a likely remote start on September 16, the plan calls for ongoing development of the phasing in of in-person instruction coupled with continued negotiations with the Canton Teachers Association concerning classroom and working conditions. All staff are due to report on September 1 and will have 10 working days to prepare and train for the new school year …

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Posted by Mike Berger on Aug 27 2020. Filed under News, Schools. Both comments and pings are currently closed.