'Leading Recommendation' For St. Paul Schools Is Online Only

SAINT PAUL, MN — Saint Paul Public Schools are likely to start out the fall going online only, otherwise known as "distance learning." The district released a statement after Gov. Tim Walz's announcement Thursday that revealed state-issued parameters for schools reopening amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"The leading recommendation is that SPPS will plan to start the school year in distance learning for all students," the district stated.

"We will continue to review all the facets of MDE’s guidance, and will provide additional details about our reopening plans with families and staff next week."

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

"Based on guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health and MDE, and dependent on the number of COVID-19 cases in Ramsey County, SPPS will look at returning to a hybrid or in-person learning scenario later this fall" the district continued.

"In addition to the three scenarios of learning that SPPS may opt into this year, SPPS is proud to offer the 100% online SPPS Virtual Learning school for students PreK-12 who prefer the option of distance learning throughout the entire school year."

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