Wayzata, Anoka-Hennepin School Districts Plan Moves to More Distance Learning
Additional schools across the northwest metro plan to adjust learning models due to rising numbers of COVID-19 cases. Last week, a handful of school districts had already announced plans to adjust its schedules.
Wayzata Public Schools
During Monday night’s school board meeting, the Wayzata School District outlined a preliminary plan to shift to distance learning for early learning, elementary and middle school students starting on Monday, Nov. 30. The school board will affirm this plan at an emergency meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 6 p.m.
Under the new plan, Wayzata High School will continue to operate in its current learning model, with the possibility that some hybrid classes may meet less frequently or go to full-time distance learning.
Students receiving special education, English learner and other targeted services will remain in person for as long as it can.
As of now, there are no changes to athletics, activities and community rentals.
While the district hopes to stay in its current learning models until Nov. 30, it may be necessary to close individual schools earlier in response to the rapid COVID-19 spread or staffing issues. If it is necessary to shift learning models prior to Nov. 30, families will receive an emergency message with additional details.
“We need everyone’s help like never before to keep schools open through Friday, Nov. 20,” said Supt. Chace Anderson. “This means staying home when sick, getting tested for COVID-19 when symptomatic and avoiding activities outside of school where the spread of the virus is more likely to occur for the next two weeks.”
Anoka-Hennepin School District
With COVID-19 cases above the state-recommended elementary guideline, the Anoka-Hennepin School District plans to transition hybrid elementary students to distance learning.
Anoka-Hennepin middle and high school students have already transitioned to distance learning Nov. 4.
In a letter to families, the district says, “It’s understood that learning model transitions can be stressful and time is needed to help families make preparations. While many districts are considering this transition within the next three weeks, the decision on a date for the transition has not been made and will be communicated to families with as much advance notice as possible.”
Details on special education, child care, meals and any other programing shifts will be shared at that time.
