Last week, parents in the Philomath School District received email first that reopening would be delayed, then that it would not. While confusing to some, it appears as the District’s last decision was dictated by mounting discontent among parents who find it “harder every day to be a parent, teacher, and provide for their family,” according to Kelsey Brooks – the woman leading a protest in front of the district offices on Monday, Jan. 11.
Weighing safety and education concerns has not been easy for the interim superintendent Susan Halliday. While recognizing the split opinions in the community on the urgency of returning to traditional learning, she admits that the plans to transition to in-person learning are behind schedule.
Brooks, acknowledging the difficulties of teachers and the imperative of safety, notes that the effects of remote learning have been detrimental on many students; she told KEZI that “kids are just falling behind on a record level.”
The Philomath School District per Governor Kate Brown’s directive is required to determine the opening date for themselves. It is unclear at this point what measures the District will take to protect children, teachers, and their families. The District’s website has no up-to-date information.
For now, children in grades K-3 will start back to in-person classes in Philomath on Jan. 19. Students in grades 4-8 will return Jan. 26.
By Joanna Rosińska
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