Fox Chapel Area School Board to vote on back-to-school plan at Aug. 3 special meeting
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Fox Chapel Area students will likely have the option to return to class online or through a hybrid model, with in-school learning two days a week.
District officials will outline details of the back-to-school plan during a special meeting at 7 p.m. tonight on Zoom. Information on joining the meeting is available at fcasd.edu.
Superintendent Mary Catherine Reljac said classes are set to resume Aug. 24 but she expects the first week to include a staggered start for students.
“That will allow for smaller numbers of students on the first few days,” Reljac said.
Details will be forthcoming on start days.
Reljac said the plan allows flexibility for families, while remaining focused on a strong education plan and meeting guidelines from state health officials that include the use of face masks and minimal contact.
The plan will continue to be reviewed and modified but the board can release aspects that have been agreed upon tonight, she said.
The hybrid model has been determined to be the healthiest route, because it allows smaller groups in school at one time, Reljac said.
Online survey results from district families showed 59% of those who responded said they preferred an in-school option, if available with safety precautions in place.
About 67% said they would want online interaction with teachers if a virtual class option is instituted.
Bonnie Berzonski, district coordinator of communications, said 87% of district students were represented in the responses.
She said enhancements to the fully online curriculum include careful blending for students to work directly with their teachers, as well as on their own.
Berzonski also said the board is expected tonight to discuss a revised Resocialization of Sports plan, based on changes in state and county guidance since the plan was originally approved by the school board.