Fall River Public School Superintendent Matthew Malone has unveiled the district’s tentative plans for all students to return full-time, in-person at all grade levels by the end of April.
The move comes following news this week that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is mandating all students return to full-time, in-person learning. The decrease in COVID-19 infection rates, combined with the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, precipitated the decision.
Under the superintendent’s phased-in plan unveiled today, students in grades K-5 who are part of the hybrid of in-person and remote learning will return full-time, in-person the week of March 29. Fully remote students in grades K-5 will be asked to return full-time, in-person the week of April 5.
Students in grades 6-12 who are part of the hybrid of in-person and remote learning will return full-time, in-person the week of April 12. Fully remote students in grades 6-12 will be asked to return full-time, in-person the week of April 26.
All students will be on spring break the week of April 19.
At all grade levels, parents of students who are currently remote will have the opportunity to request their children continue to learn remotely. Under that plan, students will be asked to take participate via the live-streaming of in-person instruction.
The return to full-time, in-person learning will feature the implementation of three-foot distancing between students in the classroom and six-foot distancing in all cafeterias. All students and staff will be required to wear masks unless a medical or behavioral exception is granted.
The plan is subject to change based on data, health conditions, and bargaining between the city and school department unions.
Parents will soon receive an invitation to take part in a survey regarding the district’s plans. Parents of fully remote students will also receive a phone call pertaining to the plan.
Here is a video featuring Superintendent Malone announcing the plan.
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