Osseo, Anoka-Hennepin School Leaders Recommend Hybrid Model to Start Year

The superintendents of the Osseo and Anoka-Hennepin School Districts are recommending beginning the 2020-2021 school year with the hybrid learning model for prekindergarten through grade 12. The hybrid model is a combination of in-person classes at reduced capacity and distance learning.

Supt. Cory McIntyre of Osseo Area Schools

“I know you desire as much information as possible, so I will continue to update you as our plans evolve. For now, I want you to know that my intention is to start school in the hybrid model,” said Cory McIntyre, superintendent of Osseo Area Schools in a letter released to families.

The Osseo School Board plans to act on the recommendations Tuesday.

Anoka-Hennepin schools also sent a letter saying the state’s largest district plans to start the year with a combination of in-person school and learning at home. The Anoka-Hennepin plan includes the following:

• Opening at 50% capacity
• 2 days in person, 3 days virtual
• Schedules released by Aug. 14

Families can also choose to sign up their children for 100% distance learning.

Gov. Walz Plan Suggests Hybrid Model for Hennepin County Schools

The recommendation by Osseo Area Schools aligns with the administration guidance of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for schools in Hennepin County. The most recent data released by the Minnesota Department of Health show 20.93 new cases of COVID-19 per 10,000 residents over a 14-day period. That case rate suggests the hybrid model. Case rates have steadily increased in Hennepin County since May, the data show.

The Anoka-Hennepin decision is made more difficult because the district encompasses two counties. Case rates in Anoka County are lower than Hennepin County at 15.54 new cases per 10,000 residents over a 14-day period. The Anoka County data would suggest all in-person learning for elementary students and hybrid learning for high school students. The reason state health officials recommend a different learning model for younger students is data suggest younger children are less likely to transmit the virus, though that scientific information continues to evolve.

Other Districts to Make Learning Decision Soon

Here’s when other school districts in the CCX News viewing area plan to make decisions:

• Wayzata says it expects to release its reopening plan in the coming week.
• Robbinsdale Area Schools plans to release its plan the second week of August.
• Brooklyn Center Community Schools plans to make its decision first day of school on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 20.
• Hopkins School District has yet to announce a decision date.

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