In Reversal, Osseo Area Schools Will Begin With Distance Learning

MAPLE GROVE, MN — Members of the Osseo Area School board have voted to change the education model that will be used to start the academic year. During an emergency meeting Aug. 28, officials approved Superintendent Cory McIntyre's newest recommendation to begin the year using distance learning.

Earlier this month, McIntyre and the board approved a plan to start with the hybrid model.

From Sept. 14 to Sept. 25, all district students will use distance learning.

McIntyre wanted 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.