In-person learning for schools delayed until September
SANTA FE (KSMX)- Today, July 23, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham along with state health officials announced that New Mexico will delay in-person learning for schools until September 7 after reporting the highest daily case increase in 5 weeks.
Though in-person learning is delayed, schools may begin online/distance learning in August. Schools are encouraged to provide additional professional development throughout August for staff.
According to officials, additional time is needed to assure students, families and educators that return can be done safely. The Public Education Department and districts will work collaboratively with staff on reentry and safety procedures. Schools have local discretion on school start dates and the use of online learning.
Students with special needs will be allowed in-person learning in small groups or 1:1 settings. Schools can serve small groups of K-3 students in-person:
- No more than 5 students per teacher
- Prioritize students in need of learning support
PED and ECECD are collaborating to step up additional childcare options throughout the state. Higher Education will be deployed online and remote learning across their campuses this fall.
The hope is that come September 7, there will be a phase-in hybrid model that would allow students to return to campus starting with the youngest students, followed by middle school then high school. The goal is to get to full reentry for all students as soon as it is safe to do so.
Guideline Principles:
- Prioritizing the health and safety of students staff and communities
- Maximize the number of safe, in-person learning opportunities
- Make decisions based on science and data
- All districts and charter schools need to offer an online-only option
- No schools can dis-enroll students if they choose an online-only option
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