November 27, 2020
With the continued concern over the rising number of active COVID-19 cases in Walla Walla County and with the support of the school board, Waitsburg School District is announcing that it will switch to distance learning for grades 6 – 12 only, starting Monday, November 30 and continue in this learning mode through Friday, December 18. Students in grades PK – 5 will return to hybrid learning. While this was not an easy decision and may not be well received by everyone, the consensus of the board is that this is the right decision for the circumstances at this time. This is a proactive measure to keep students and staff safe and healthy.
The school schedule beginning Monday, November 30, 2020 will be as follows:
- PK – 5 students will return to the hybrid model for in-person instruction.
- Group A – Mondays and Tuesdays
- Group B – Thursdays and Fridays
- Small group targeted assistance – Wednesday
- Grades 6 – 12 will continue with distance learning through December 18, 2020
- Small group targeted assistance will be done through Google Classroom/Zoom
The Waitsburg School Board and Superintendent Mark Pickel will reassess school opening plans at the December 17, 2020 school board meeting. At that time, a decision will be made whether to return to a hybrid school model for secondary students on January 4, 2021, or continue with distance learning. We are following all necessary protocols and next steps to keep students and staff safe and healthy.
We are working closely with the Walla Walla Community Health Department as we navigate these next few weeks before the winter break. It is of utmost importance to keep students, parents, and community members informed as we work towards bringing students back in adherence with a safe and cautious timeline. The decision to switch the secondary students to distance learning was done with an abundance of caution, knowing that it is the best safeguard for our community under the current circumstances.
The secondary teachers will be connecting with all of their students about schedules, online classes, and attendance. If students need materials, they will be able to pick them up at the school. Meal deliveries and pick-ups will continue as planned\
Please contact the school if you have questions, concerns or need any assistance. We are here to help. We ask for your patience and flexibility.
Any questions or concerns, please contact Superintendent/Elementary Principal Mark Pickel.
Tel: 509-337-6301, ext. 1104 / Email: mpickel@waitsburgsd.org