Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools Superintendent Allen Bourff plans to place a recommendation before the school board on Wednesday, Oct. 14 to begin 100 percent in-person learning for grades 5 and 6, starting Nov. 2.
Dr. Bourff cited the experience so far with elementary students, up to grade 4, and believes that data can be used to expand the learning in-person in the traditional classroom.
Bourff
Nov. 2 was chosen as the date because it is one week after fall break and provides time to make the transition. Bourff said elementary staff and students have done a “commendable job” in handling the health and safety protocols.
There will be a second recommendation made to the board at the Oct. 14 session, allowing virtual-only learning to be extended through the second semester for those families choosing that option.
Dr. Bourff commented that grades 7-12 will see a return to 100 percent in-person classes “as soon as safely possible.”
Bourff cited many challenges in bringing all grades 7-12 students back to the classroom 100 percent, but will recommend that action “when conditions within the schools and within the community indicate it is safe to do.”
School officials have received what Bourff describes as some “disturbing reports” of student stress in virtual learning. Professional support is available for students experiencing such stress. Contact administrators or counselors to ask for help.
Parents are encouraged by Dr. Bourff to thank a teacher. Classroom teachers are working under conditions never seen before and face challenges they must address as they go along.
You can view the entire video featuring Dr. Bourff at this link.