The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) released today a guide for families to help them understand what to expect for the 2020-21 school year. The guide is available in English, Hmong, Somali and Spanish.
This guide outlines the expectations around three learning scenarios for the school year:
Scenario 1:
In person learning for all students
In this scenario, schools provide as much space between students and teachers as possible during the day. However, schools will not need to strictly enforce 6 feet of social distancing during primary instructional time in the classroom.
Scenario 2:
Hybrid learning with strict social distancing and capacity limits
Schools will limit the overall number of people in school facilities and on transportation vehicles to 50% maximum occupancy.
Sufficient social distancing with at least 6 feet between people must occur at all times. If distancing cannot be achieved in a space or on a transportation vehicle, the number of occupants must be reduced.
Schools must also include plans for contactless pick-up and/or delivery of meals and school materials for days that students and staff are not in the school building, as well as implementation of a school-age care for critical workers.
Scenario 3:
Distance learning only
This may be implemented if local, regional, or statewide COVID-19 metrics worsen significantly enough to require the suspension of in-person learning. Schools may be open to provide emergency child care, meals and/or other functions.
If families are uncomfortable sending their students back to school buildings, they can connect with their district for a distance learning option.
New Measures
There are new measures that schools need to take in Scenarios 1 and 2 to protect the health and safety of students, families and staff.
The guide also provides a snapshot of what families can expect under each scenario for the following:
- Academics
- Student & Family Support
- Meals
- Transportation
- Attendance
Learn more on MDE’s Supporting Students and Families COVID-19 Resources page.
