During a nine hour marathon of a school board meeting, the Washoe County School District approved plans for the reopening of schools in the fall. Those proposals now head to the Nevada Department of Education for final approval. KUNR’s Stephanie Serrano breaks down the details.

The school board voted to start the 2020-2021 school year on August 17th, allowing for teachers to prep for at least 5 days before the start of the semester. During this time, teachers would also invest in professional development for the new year. Kindergarteners would start August 24th.

The trustees have requested that elementary school students return to school full-time while practicing health guidelines like social distancing and mask wearing when safe.

As for middle and high schools, the trustees have adopted a hybrid model. The model will split students into two groups: an A group and B group. The students will rotate between in-person classes and distance learning. 

Vulnerable students like English Language Learners or students in foster family programs will have the opportunity to have full-time in-person sessions. On top of the recommended models by the board parents and guardians will have the option to enroll students in full-distance-learning at the start of the school year. 

Each model emphasizes the enforcement of hygiene protocols and constant cleaning during in-person school hours. 

Superintendent Kristen McNeill emphasized the need to work together, calling on community partners and legislators.  

“Voices need to be heard at the federal level. Our state is not going to be able to do this list without additional federal funding,” McNeill said.

The trustees are also working to ensure that an appropriate device and internet access are available for students in need. 

This story was shared with us thanks to our partnership with KUNR Public Radio.