Elementary & Secondary Education Commissioner Jeffrey Riley has issued requirements and guidance to Massachusetts public school districts regarding the reopening of schools in the fall. This comprehensive, 28-page document includes the following:
• Based on current medical research, and if current positive public health metrics continue, the intention is to have in-person school with preventive measures in place in order to better serve the holistic needs of students.
• School districts will be required to plan for three types of scenarios: in-person; a hybrid of in-person and remote learning; and a fully remote learning option so that districts can respond to changing circumstances regarding the virus if necessary.
• Face masks/coverings will be required for all staff and for students in grade 2 and above, and students younger than second grade will be encouraged to wear them.
• Based on medical research, a minimum physical distance of three feet is established, in conjunction with other preventive measures.
Our school district will be reviewing this state guidance and incorporate it into our planning for next school year. This is a very complex situation, and your patience is appreciated. There are many questions still unanswered, and the Department of Elementary & Secondary Education indicates it will be providing more information on other aspects, such as bus transportation requirements, in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if you have a question, please email 2020reopen@shrewsbury.k12.ma.us and we will try to answer it.
Thank you for your patience and continued support.