The health officials in Indianapolis have ordered all K-12 school in Marion County to return to 100% virtual learning by November 30 through at least January 15. The announcement was made in response to the rising COVID-19 cases not just across the state but specifically in Marion County.
According to health officials, the seven-day positivity rate has risen to 10.3%.
Dr. Caine said the likelihood of schools returning to in-person before January 15 is unlikely unless there is “remarkable, surprising information.”
Unlike the spring of 2019, schools do have roughly two weeks to prepare for the change. Also, unlike the spring, schools do have some experience with remote learning. Many schools have moved to 1:1 technology, teachers do have experience with teaching virtually, students are familiar with the platforms, and many families have adjusted.
As a community, we are much more prepared than in the past to make this adjustment. It will be interesting to see if more money will funnel into the newly developed learning sites around the city as all school buildings in Marion County are closing again. The learning sites were important as many parents had to work, and they had no one to watch their children during the day.
Another issue to watch is the need for reliable internet at home and the need to provide meals for students while they are at home.
As schools make this change, it is essential to keep everyone safe, practice social distancing, wear a mask, and wash your hands. We all have to control the spread to get schools back open.
Indy K12 will update this story as more information becomes available.