Schools

'Fighting For In-Person Learning,' Solon School Leaders Say

The district is evaluating a return to in-person education after winter break.

SOLON, OH — The Solon Schools are still deciding whether they will return to in-person education after winter break.

District officials shared a note with the community this week, saying they will be analyzing COVID-19 cases within the district, quarantined staffers and students, and the ability to adequately provide staffing before making a decision.

"We are still fighting to keep in-person learning and we will keep you updated on our decision-making every step of the way," the district said in its message.

Find out what's happening in Solonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

As of Monday, there were 13 active COVID-19 cases in the district (one staffer, 12 students). An additional 11 staffers and 82 students were also quarantined.

"Our school conditions reflect the sharply rising cases in our community," the district said.

Find out what's happening in Solonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Students in grades 7 through 12 are now learning remotely, so the district is reassigning staffers to cover for quarantines and precautionary absences for students in grades PreK-6.

"Even with the diverted staff resources, staffing continues to present a challenge, which could cause additional buildings to shift to remote learning. Additionally, the overall lack of substitute coverage is complicating staffing issues for the end-of-quarter preparation and planning at our primary levels," the district said.

To address staffing shortages, Dec. 18 will be a day off for K-6 students. Students in grades 7-12 will still have classes and midterms virtually, as scheduled.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

More from Solon