(Atlantic) Atlantic Schools Superintendent Steve Barber reviewed the district’s return to learn plan at Wednesday’s electronic school board meeting.
Barber says the purpose of the Return-to-Learn Plan is to create some working documents based on changes surrounding COVID-19 and the parameters in which school districts have to operate.
School Districts are required to submit a Return-to-Learn Plan approved by the Department of Education by July 1, 2020, per recommendations from the Continuous Learning Task force. There is not a voluntary option; the plan must include grades and attendance. Barber says the only method that is required is the continuous learning plan, which is online learning.
Barber says the biggest challenge for the off-site learning experience is the need for accessibility and equity. Barber and IT Director Roger Warne have been exploring options for hot-spots. One option is installing a radio on the water tower. The other option is Mediacom’s proposal for a $10.00 per month internet install in homes currently without internet access. The Atlantic School District is receiving $218, 675 in a one-time payment from the CARES Act. The funds go towards health and safety expenses, technology needs, requirements for IDEA (equity), and pay for specific building needs.
The other two plans include; the Hybrid Plan, which limits gatherings to no more than ten individuals. Barber says due to the current social distancing guidelines; this would not allow the district to have a regular schedule.
The third plan is the traditional plan which resembles a standard opening, with safety protocols and guidelines from the Iowa Department of Public health.
In addition to a return to learn plan, the district must have a reopening plan. Barber says the guidelines for this will be released sometime this week by the Iowa Department of Public Health. It appears Personal Protective Equipment will be needed, and protocols will need to meet health and safety guidelines.
Return to Learn provisions may include options for summer school, enrichment activities, or other opportunities designed to address the needs of learners as a result of COVID-19 disruptions to learning.
