Eagan Schools In District 196 Will Use 'Hybrid Learning' Model

EAGAN, MN — Eagan students in District 196 will start the school year using a hybrid learning model, with a combination of learning at school and from home. The Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District made the announcement Thursday after Gov. Tim Walz unveiled statewide parameters for schools to reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"As much as we wanted to return to full-time in-person learning, we continue to rely on public health data and directives from the state to prioritize a safe learning environment for students, teachers, staff and families," the district said in a release.

"The Minnesota Safe Learning Plan determines the amount of time students can be learning in school based on the COVID-19 case rate and trends in positive cases by county. Public health data and safety guidelines continue to inform development and implementation of our flexible learning model. "

District officials said the decision was made using feedback from focus groups and looking at data and limitations for in-person classes.

Here's the hybrid-model will work:

All district students will attend school in person two days a week in "A" and "B" cohorts.

• Cohort A will be at school Mondays and Thursdays
• Cohort B will be at school Tuesdays and Fridays

Each cohort will be about half of students enrolled in the current class, according to the district.

On other days, students will be learning from home. Cohorts will be determined for all grade levels alphabetically or by family so students living in the same household attend school in person on the same days.

The district will also provide the "196 Digital Academy" for families who do not want their children to attend school in person at all.

"Our plan is rooted in providing equitable access to high-quality education, protecting the health and safety of students and staff, and being proactive in our response to this unprecedented challenge," the district said.

"Schools are a place where relationships matter. And as a community, it is important we remain connected and collaborative in our work to provide students with the best educational experience possible."

The guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Health encourage school buildings to reopen, or remain closed, depending on the number of COVID-19 cases in their county.

All schools that do open during the school year must follow public health guidelines on masks, social distancing, personal hygiene, screening, and cleaning practices.

Minnesota's departments of education and health will work with school districts throughout the school year to help districts decide if and when they need to dial between learning models depending on the progression and cause of the virus in their specific community.

Read more: Gov. Walz Announces 'Safe Learning Plan' For Minnesota Schools