Options for Northland Pines school district to return to classes for the next school year were presented to district parents in three communities recently by administrator Scott Foster who described what was desired and what could happen if changes were required. “Our goal is to return to in-person instruction for all students and staff,” Foster said, “and to create the safest learning environment. We are also looking at multiple options and to prepare to change if needed.”
Foster spoke to 93 persons who attended his presentation in person in St. Germain, Eagle River, and Land O'Lakes with an additional 133 persons connected on-line. The goals for both Kindergarten through 6th grade and for grades 7-12 were explained using information from multiple sources keying in on safety, learning, social interaction, and transportation. “The American Acadamy of Pediatrics indicated the mental health needs of students are better to have them in school,” Foster said. “The lower elementary students will have masks available but will not be required to wear them, although teachers will. The younger kids wearing masks tend to touch them more.”
The district options, if needed, include a shorter week, distance learning, and remote learning. The school board will review the back to school plan at its July meeting and provide directions to Foster on what to implement. The plan can be viewed on the district website.
