West Ada School District passed a motion Tuesday night, allowing K-5 students to have in-person learning every day, with Monday's early release, starting Nov. 10.
Students grade 6-12 will remain in an alternate day in-person learning schedule with Monday being remote. West Ada board members revisited the district's COVID safety plan with the feedback of a group, led by Dr. David Pate, retired CEO of St. Luke's medical group.
"We all have a common goal. Keep our kids in school and do so safely," Pate said.
Officials felt grades 4-12 have the most challenging time with physical distancing since they have many students per classroom. Decisions regarding any closures will be based on school-by-school data and made by Superintendent Mary Ann Ranells.
The district says it will focus on improving practices for social distancing, wearing proper face coverings correctly, and utilizing health and safety protocols and mitigating measures. At the end of the four-hour-long meeting, Vice-chairman Steve Smylie resigned from his position on the board, stating the pandemic has caused a division.
"When adults fight, children lose," Smylie said.
Parents and teachers also testified during the meeting, voicing their concerns about the safety plan for students.
You can watch the full meeting here.
