KCSD schools to reopen Jan. 11
December 28, 2020
Classes start Jan. 4 with a week of distance, then transition to in-person/hybrid instruction
NOTE: Information about reopening was posted prematurely and inaccurately by someone on Facebook earlier on Dec. 28, including misinformation about KCSD's plan. Our hybrid model will remain the same as it was this fall.
Dear KCSD families,
We have big news. Klamath County School District plans to reopen schools to in-person instruction for all students starting Monday, Jan. 11.
Over the winter break, Gov. Kate Brown announced new guidance that changes COVID-19 case metrics from mandatory to advisory, allowing school districts to work with local public health officials to determine when to reopen schools.
During a meeting Monday with district superintendents and school nurses, county public health officials advised a 10-day waiting period following winter break because of current high case counts of COVID-19 in the county and an expected spike in cases following Christmas and New Year’s.
The planned reopening date allows 10 days between the holidays and the first day of in-person classes. All students will return to class Monday, Jan. 4 for a week of distance learning before transitioning to in-person models. On Monday, Jan. 11, students will return to the in-person and hybrid instruction models their schools were following before rising COVID-19 cases in late November forced all students to return to distance learning. Look for more details from your schools next week.
We have been working with public health since September to keep students in school to the maximum degree possible. It will be good to finally get back to all students having the opportunity to do in-person instruction.
Our schools must still follow all safety and health protocols in Oregon Department of Education’s Ready Schools, Safe Learners. The new guidance from the governor does not mean schools can resume in-person instruction without regard for COVID-19 spread in the community.
We will continue to work closely with Klamath County Public Health, the Oregon Department of Education, and Oregon Health Authority to ensure our decision-making process remains grounded in sound science, public health, and student, staff, and community safety.
It is essential that educators, staff, students, and parents work together so we can make the best choices for our communities and students.
The district will continue to offer KCSD Online for students and families who are not comfortable returning to in-person instruction because of COVID-19 concerns. If you are interested in enrolling in our online program, contact your school.
Hope you had an enjoyable holiday.
Respectfully,
Glen Szymoniak
Superintendent
Klamath County School District