Here’s the press release from the district. Seems like we’re going backwards again.
Press Release
MMSD Delays Return from Winter Break Due to COVID Concerns
Instruction to start in a virtual model January 6, before transitioning back to in-person
MADISON — Due to the increased incidence of COVID-19 in Dane County, and discussions with local health experts, the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is delaying its return from winter break, at all grade levels, with instruction beginning Thursday, January 6. As part of this pause, Thursday’s return to instruction will be virtual, as planning continues for the district’s intended transition from winter break back to in-person learning. All MMSD staff will return to their work spaces, schedule, and routines on Monday, January 3.
Recently, the new Omicron variant of COVID-19 has fueled a steep upward trajectory in positive Dane County cases. Currently, total case counts are doubling at the alarming rate of every two days. Local and national health experts are forecasting COVID-19 cases to continue climbing, peaking in mid-to-late January. This increase in cases will further amplify the district’s already critical level of staff shortages.
“There are no “easy” decisions relative to navigating the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Superintendent Dr. Carlton D. Jenkins. “We recognize this decision will have a significant impact on our families, especially single parents and essential workers. However, we will continue to leverage our resources to support our families and ensure their safety and wellbeing.”
Throughout the pandemic, the district’s layered safety strategy has been highly effective in mitigating spread and keeping schools safe. The pause will allow the district to reset, and better monitor current conditions as well as secure additional resources for safety mitigation. The change also allows time for the district to address critical staff shortages due to COVID-19, and ensure its return to in-person learning is sustainable.
“Understanding the social, emotional and mental health benefits of remaining in-person has made this decision incredibly difficult,” Dr. Jenkins added. “It has always been our preference to have students learning in-person, in the classroom. Our ultimate responsibility is to ensure our return to school buildings for in-person instruction after winter break will be done in a safe and sustainable manner.”
The district will be providing the community with an update on its return next Thursday, January 6.
Will learn more tomorrow after the press conference.
District to hold Virtual Media Availability Tomorrow (Friday), December 31, 2021 at 10:00 a.m.
Tomorrow (Friday), MMSD will be hosting a virtual press availability with MMSD Superintendent Dr. Carlton D. Jenkins and district leaders to answer reporters’ questions on the district’s decision to delay its return from winter break.
Who: MMSD Superintendent Dr. Carlton D. Jenkins, UW Health Experts and District Leaders
What: Virtual Press Availability, Questions and Answers
When: Tomorrow (Friday), December 31, 2021 – 10:00 a.m.
