Board of Education to Take Final Action on Return Plan Dec. 15

This update on the district’s plan for the return of students to in-person learning was sent to staff on Friday, Dec. 4.

On December 3, the Board of Education voted to delay its final action on the district’s framework for the return of students to in-person learning to its Dec. 15 meeting. On Nov. 10, the Board tentatively approved the framework that outlines the district’s plan to bring some students back for in-person instruction beginning Jan. 12, 2021, if health metrics are met. MCPS has proposed that the initial return focus on students in specific special education and Career Technology Education (CTE) programs. Larger groups of students will begin phasing in on Feb. 1, 2021. The Board has asked MCPS to reevaluate its metrics for reopening, as well as the proposed sequence for students to return. They have asked the district to explore a strategy that prioritizes the return of our youngest learners sooner.

It is important to note that how instruction will be delivered once we return to buildings will be different for students, given capacity restrictions and staff availability. Parents will receive more information about school-specific plans in January. Survey responses will be used to develop community and grade level-specific models.

As MCPS continues its planning for the return of students, we remain committed to doing so in a manner that is safe for students and staff. COVID-19 will be with us for the foreseeable future and we must continue to re-imagine how we operate as a system to meet the needs of our students. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we work through these complex details.