The Washoe County School District says it plans to start distance learning on April 1st.
On Thursday, WCSD Interim Superintendent Kristen McNeil said that students, right now, are scheduled to return to physical classrooms on April 16th, but that decision may change by April 16th. They will continue to follow the guidance given by Governor Steve Sisolak as how to proceed past that date.
D'Lisa Crain mentioned that the washoeschools.net website has more than just district information, it also offers services including emotional support options for children and families.
The WCSD plans to send out regular newsletters and are working on instructional videos in English and Spanish. The website also contains information who parents who want to use paper packets. She warns students "don't try to do all of this in one week." They stressed that the packets won't be graded, instead wanting the students to review skills they learned before the current coronavirus pandemic. Pickup locations for these packets are on the school districts website. The purpose of the packets is for learning retention, similar to summer vacation school work.
School officials are urging school staff to communicate with families each day through video conferencing or Zoom. They also say families who have kids with special needs will be reached out to individually.
When referring to a possible upcoming budget shortage, officials said that are looking at all areas and plan to submit a tentative budget at Tuesday's meeting.
During the conference a question regarding lay offs was asked and the WCSD says no one has been laid off yet.
A question regarding graduation was also asked. The WCSD says along with Governor Sisolaks order regarding mandatory test requirements, one of their biggest goals is to make sure students who are on track to graduate, do graduate so they can "move on with their lives."
