Following information from the previous district survey, we have worked hard to implement as many recommended safety precautions as possible without limiting our personal and professional relationships which have been identified to impact student learning.
Each building will have an individualized plan that considers the three models of learning already provided by the MDE. Within each of those models, we have chosen the four priorities that were shared previously with staff. Those are: Health and Safety, Choices, Social Emotional Wellbeing, and Student Success.
We have also identified safety measures for a safe return to school in-person or in a hybrid model. Some specific safety precautions we will utilize include:
- Dual Filtration Systems and Monitoring of Ventilation Systems
- Daily Use of Electrostatic Disinfecting Sprayers in Buildings and Transportation
- Increased Access to Water Bottle Filling Stations
- Face Shields for Staff Members
- Mask Requirement per Executive Order 20-81
- Room Specific Sanitizers
- Increased Social Distance Opportunities
- Hand Sanitizer Dispensers in Common and High Traffic Areas
- Personal Protective Equipment for Specific Staff in High Risk Areas
- COVID Specific Signs and Decals in and around Restrooms, Classrooms, Fountains, etc.
- Limiting of Non-essential Visitors/Volunteers/External groups
In-Person Model
The in-person model for Becker Public Schools will create as much space between students and teachers as is feasible during the day, but will not be held strictly to enforcing 6 feet of social distancing during primary instructional time in the classroom. Students will be engaged with their peers and their teacher in learning. We will have 100% occupancy limits in classrooms and on transportation with some redefined learning spaces. There will be minimal changes to the regular classroom schedule with the previously shared safety precautions. There will be continuous/on-going communication with County and State agencies related to current conditions. There will be some modifications to schedules and programming, but care was taken to eliminate any issues with student learning related to these changes.
Hybrid Model-Elementary (Primary/Intermediate)
Similar to the In-Person Model, Becker Primary and Intermediate school will continue to have in-person options available to 100% of our students. Some additional safety changes taking place in the Hybrid Model will be increased social distancing due to the utilization of a variety of non-conventional spaces. Schools must also limit the overall number of people on transportation vehicles to 50% maximum occupancy. The Hybrid Model will continue to allow daily contact with licensed staff and personnel in the Primary and Intermediate School.
Hybrid Model-Secondary (Middle/High)
The Hybrid Model for Becker Middle School and High School will take place in groups. Group A will be students A-K, and Group B will be students L-Z. 50% of students would be present on either Monday/Tuesday (Group A), or Thursday/Friday (Group B). Wednesdays would be designated as a Distance Learning Day for all students. Additionally, days that students are not in school would be designated as Distance Learning days depending on their Group schedule. Some additional safety changes taking place in the Hybrid Model will be increased social distancing due to a limited number of students within the building at one type. Schools must also limit the overall number of people on transportation vehicles to 50% maximum occupancy. The Hybrid Model will continue to allow daily contact with licensed staff and personnel in the Middle and High School.
Based on student need, some students may be required to attend in person during the week outside of their group schedule.
Distance Learning Model
If COVID case numbers increase and guidance suggests a distance learning model, students will be participating in a synchronous learning environment, meaning their classes will take place with a licensed teacher during the same time as they would in the in-person model. School will be available for emergency child care and other required or vital functions.
Note: All school districts must offer a distance learning model to all families who choose not to attend in-person/hybrid learning (whether as part of an in-person learning model or hybrid learning model) due to medical risks or other safety concerns. Families are encouraged to contact building administrators to identify solutions to these risks that can allow more in-person interaction and instruction.
