As Hermiston ZIP code metrics decline regarding COVID-19 cases, Hermiston School District elementary administrators are building a plan for the return of kindergarten and first grade students to the classroom for hybrid learning.
On Feb. 16 elementary schools will adjust their schedules to offer comprehensive distance learning in the afternoon. At the same time, these buildings will welcome kindergarten and first grade students into classrooms on a hybrid model. The hybrid model is part two of three for families that chose the path of returning their student to the classroom when schools reopen, rather than having them attend Hermiston Online, the district’s K-12 comprehensive virtual school by FuelEd.
“The district is moving methodically into hybrid learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Tricia Mooney. “As we move further into hybrid and Hermiston case counts reach lower thresholds, we will return additional students to the classroom. The final goal is to return students to onsite learning full time.”
Hermiston ZIP code data must reach less than 88 cases over 14 days, as reported by Umatilla County Health Department and Oregon Health Authority, for the district to be able to launch the hybrid model.
“Though the transition won’t be overnight, once metrics are met, the district will be able to promptly roll out hybrid learning for kinder and first grade,” said Mooney.
To check the Hermiston case counts, relative to COVID-19 metrics, parents and community members may visit the district website. Information will be routinely updated as it is released by the Oregon Health Authority.
