Why more kids aren’t back at school; Despite low COVID case counts, administrators say numerous hurdles remain
Despite relatively low COVID-19 infection rates on the Big Island, some schools have opted to continue with distance learning this quarter, while others are working to bring students back to campus.
The decision by schools to maintain distance learning or transition to a blended learning model is, by all accounts, a complicated one that requires an evaluation not only of the number of coronavirus cases in the community but a broad range of other factors as well.
“Schools, in collaboration with complex area leaders, developed and adjusted their third-quarter plans, taking into consideration the (state Department of Health) metrics that account for case activity by island, as well as other factors such as campus facilities and whether it allows for proper social distancing, proper staffing for blended learning or student transportation logistics,” said state Department of Education spokeswoman Krislyn Yano.
