After months of discussion, and nearly a year of waiting for a pandemic to subside, students in kindergarten and first grade will begin in-person hybrid learning March 2.
Students will attend school in-person two days a week in either a Tuesday/Thursday or Wednesday/Friday cohort. Parents can verify which cohort their students are in by checking the ParentVUE.
On the days when they aren’t physically in school, they will continue distance learning.
During the rest of March, in-person classes will resume for grades two through five. In-person classes for second and third grade begin Tuesday, March 9. Grades four and five will resume in-person classes Tuesday, March 16.
A return to in-person classes for middle school and high school students is still under discussion. More information is expected later this month. High schools are already offering limited in-person instruction for students needing extra help.
Christy Perry, superintendent for Salem-Keizer Public Schools, released a video addressing information about hybrid learning and some of the health concerns.
“Like our families and students, health and safety are on the top of our minds, especially when it comes to students returning to in-person learning” said Perry.
COVID-19 safety protocols have been put in place since September, said Perry. This includes keeping students six feet apart at all times, enforcing mask wearing and providing hand sanitizer stations. The intent is to promote a safe environment for students and staff.
Although students are encouraged to receive their own ride to and from the school, buses will be available.
Elementary principals are currently planning school-specific information sessions between now and the start of school. In the meantime, parents who have questions are encouraged to visit tinyurl.com/salkeizhybrid.
The district is asking families that can arrange for the transportation of their own students to do so. Students that are eligible for district transportation and need transportation must fill out a Rider Registration form at tinyurl.com/hybridbuses.