Education Model For Maple Grove Schools Still Up In Air

MAPLE GROVE, MN — The board for Osseo Area Schools Tuesday voted against Superintendent Cory McIntyre's new recommendation for how to begin the school year. McIntyre, whose previous recommendation of a hybrid model was approved Aug. 4, is now asking for the school to start using distance learning.

Unless the board approves another education model, the school year will begin using the hybrid model.

McIntyre wants to move to distance learning for two reasons laid out in a news release:

1. "Virus case rates in our greater community are concerning. McIntyre and district administration have been in regular contact with state and county public health officials; McIntyre has specifically consulted with MDE, MDH and Hennepin County Public Health regarding start plans. Each of those agencies advised taking a more cautious approach that puts safety first."

2. "We also need more time to finalize staffing in our physical schools and the DLA, and to provide staff training in the hybrid model. Starting the hybrid model later will provide more time to plan for that model and will help ensure that our staff is confident and ready for hybrid learning."

Amid the uncertainty, district officials delayed the first day of school to Monday, Sept. 14. The board is expected to host an emergency meeting in order to finalize plans in the near future.