Introduction

This reopening plan represents an ongoing collaborative process and is a reflection of the feedback received from surveys as well as information collected over these past few months. Thank you for your participation in the gathering of this information. This document is also a reflection of the resources and guidance received from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), The Washington Department of Health (DOH), Walla Walla County Health Department, Educational Service District 123, and the Governor’s office.

Our reopening plan consists of a multi-phased approach that ranges from school to school, providing full-time in-person learning to providing 100% distance learning. Between these two ends of the spectrum is a hybrid model that maximizes in-person learning opportunities while still maintaining social distancing requirements and other important safety protocols needed to ensure both student and staff safety. The instructional model implemented at any given time during the school year will be determined by the ever-changing health situation and guidance from both OSPI and the DOH.  The lessons learned this past spring will allow us to improve upon our practices regardless of the instructional model we are in.

We recognize that these state protocols and guidelines create difficult tradeoffs as we balance the impact of student learning with the safety measures needed to ensure the health of our community.  Opening our schools in a COVID-19 environment presents unique challenges to our district and we will use all available resources to address them.  We know that we must protect our staff and students while minimizing the impact on student learning. We also recognize that specific instructional models appropriate for our older students may not be suitable for our youngest learners. This plan reflects our commitment to student learning and our ability to respond rapidly to a changing landscape. Through thoughtful planning and the dedicated efforts of our staff, we are confident in our ability to continue providing your child an education with minimal disruption to programs and services.

 To see the full document, click here.