Portland Public Schools (PPS), the largest school district in Oregon, recently shared its tentative back-to-school plan for the 2020-2021 school year. The first day of school this year is September 2, 2020. The first two weeks of the year are slated to be a “check-in” period. Teachers can talk to students, collaborate with families about programs, and generally ease students into the new year. This check-in period will be virtual.
PPS then plans on using a “hybrid” model of instruction. A hybrid model includes both in-person and virtual learning. Students pre-kindergarten through eighth grade will be divided into two cohorts; for example: cohort A would attend school in person two days a week, cohort B would attend school the other two days, and the last day would be used to clean the school. High school students will take four classes per semester. They will also use a similar hybrid model and will attend school in-person two days a week.
PPS is also still working on developing a full-time virtual program for students as well. Additionally, the district is adamant that these plans are still tentative; the district will be listening and following guidance from public health experts.