Returning to School

Iowa schools were required to submit "Return to Learn" plans to the state by July 1. They were to include plans that would address in-person learning, online learning or a hybrid model. Along with their plans the Iowa City Community School District announced that face coverings would be required for all staff and students if/when they return to in-person learning. On July 14 the ICCSD Board of Directors voted 7-0 to start the school year online - with no onsite learning until things are reevaluated on October 1. This decision came in part due to the increasing COVID cases being seen in Johnson County and the fact that social distancing in our already overcrowded schools would be virtually impossible. Of course, online learning creates an impossible situation for most families - kids will be home all day needing support to complete their learning. Who is supposed to do that when both parents are at work? Then on July 17 Governor Reynolds issued a proclamation directing all schools to resume face-to-face education when school starts. What? Up until July 17 there had been no indication that the state would mandate how schools would start in the fall. What a mess. Now everyone is scrambling to figure out what details are included in the mandate and how we can send kids back to school in a safe way while cases are increasing. Families are scrambling, looking for homeschool or private school options to keep their kids out of the classroom. Who knows how this is all going to unfold.