KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of Shawnee Mission School District students and parents now want a return to the classroom.
More than 1,300 students have asked to move from remote learning to in-person instruction, according to the district, while nearly 300 want to switch to remote learning from in-person.
SMSD officials said they are working with teachers to prepare for a hybrid schedule, which begins Oct. 5.
Students can request a change at the semester, but it is not guaranteed.
Parents had until Monday to choose a method of learning for the rest of the school year. Between Tuesday and Sept. 25, students will be placed in sections with teachers who are taking on in-person and remote courses.
Pre-kindergarten through second-grade hybrid courses will begin Oct. 5, along with students’ new schedules. By Oct. 12, third grade through sixth grade classes will begin hybrid learning. The transition to all in-person learning for elementary school students will begin Oct. 19, with the youngest students returning to the classroom first.
The district has a plan in place for high-risk individuals, will develop options for remote learning and will promote healthy hygiene practices. Staff also will intensify cleaning and disinfection practices.
Masks or face coverings will be required, along with limited sharing of materials and limited allowance for non-essential visitors.
Isolation rooms also will be implemented.
District officials said that parents should expect cases to happen and, when they do, should plan for a 14-day quarantine.
