Additionally, we will reopen for blended/hybrid instruction subject to agreements with our labor partners.
Another condition to reopening for in-person instruction is, of course, the need to reach agreements with our labor unions. We recently reached an agreement to open small learning hubs for special education students with the support of AFSCME members (see below for more information). AFSCME represents OUSD’s Paraeducators, LVNs, Custodians, 504 Technicians and Food Service Workers. OUSD and OEA, our teachers union, agreed to return to negotiations on in-person learning, which will begin in October. We look forward to jointly shaping a hybrid model through this process with OEA and all labor groups involved.
As a reminder, we are currently in the Red Tier because our countywide COVID indicators have been improving. If those numbers worsen, we could go back to the Purple Tier and revert to the previous set of rules and guidelines about schools.
OUSD is moving forward with opening learning hubs.
Initially, the learning hubs are being operated by the city at city facilities, with staff from partner agencies. Soon, however, we hope to add new learning hubs at District campuses starting with hubs for students with special needs. This is consistent with the “phased in” approach to in-person learning we shared in the summer. With these hubs, we want to provide services and support to students who need it the most - students with certain disabilities and students who have, or are at greatest risk of experiencing significant learning loss. These supports will have extensive safety protocols in place.
We are mindful of the strong opinions within our community. Some families will not consider any in-person options while others are urging our District to provide an opportunity for in-person learning. We empathize with all of our families under these extraordinary circumstances and are working to serve families as best we can given our COVID-19 circumstances.
Thank you for your continued patience and support during these difficult times. Please know that we are working hard to create the best and safest learning environment possible for our students, staff, and community.