CPS recommends 'hybrid' model for 2020

Chicago Public Schools has outlined a hybrid model for students to “learn at school and at home” throughout the upcoming school year in a Google Doc titled, “School Reopening 2020: Preliminary Framework.”

“Our preliminary framework is rooted in science and developed in accordance with guidance released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and the Illinois State Board of Education,” CPS Chief Executive Officer Janice K. Jackson notes in the introuduction. “We’ve heard from families that they are eager to resume their child’s education but in a manner that minimizes the health risks posed by COVID-19.”

In a section titled “Our Recommendation,” the 24-page document references Phase 4 of the state’s Restore Illinois plan, which “allows schools to open for in-person instruction.” It proceeds to describe the plan in a number of subsequent sections.

A paragraph titled, “Students will be assigned to pods,” explains how “an easily identifiable group” of students will “remain together for all in-person instruction and activities during a school day.”

“Social distancing within and among pods” suggests restrictions on “intermingling.”

“A hybrid model supports a variety of scenarios throughout the year” offers step-by-step guidelines for if and when a student tests positive for “the virus” as well as attendance recommendations for schools to follow. It ends with step number five, which reads “Families will have the option to have their child learn at-home full time.”

To review the framework in its entirety, click on this.