Shaker Schools Board Wants Return To In-Person Classes

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — The Shaker Heights Board of Education said it is committed to bringing students back into classrooms.

"It is clear that remote learning is not serving all our students and is negatively impacting both the achievement gap and their social and emotional health. That said, we also know the District will continue to offer concurrent remote learning for our families who want their students to stay home, providing options for online and onsite learning," the board said in a statement.

The board said Shaker Schools have implemented "strong" health and safety protocols.

"Our buildings are ready. Our teachers will be in our buildings starting next week and will be able to provide additional input on what they need in preparation for students’ return," the board said.

This announcement from the board comes amid a record-breaking COVID-19 surge in Ohio. Cuyahoga County has been classified as "red" and could become one of Ohio's first "purple" counties next week.

When Cuyahoga County became "red," the Shaker Schools delayed a planned return to in-person learning. The Cuyahoga County Board of Health recommends schools remain in remote learning if the county is "red."

"As the school year has unfolded it has become clear those recommendations do not reflect the reality on the ground. Many districts around us have successfully navigated onsite learning and will continue to provide it for their students while the county is at Level 3 (Red)," the board said.

Board members also dismissed concerns from the teachers union.

"We are aware of the Shaker Heights Teachers’ Association’s concerns but remain confident the Administration and SHTA can work together over the coming days to reach common ground. Nevertheless, reconciling these concerns should not delay a date and timeline for returning to school," the board said.