OKCPS Breaks Down Safe Return To School Plan

Oklahoma City Public Schools said Pre-K and Kindergarten families are expected to receive an email through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal and by phone, to learn if their child is assigned to group A or B before they return to class on the week of October 19.

The district said on Monday of that week, all students will be learning virtually from home with their teachers. Superintendent Dr. Sean McDaniel said this move was purposeful, to set the stage for the week and keep everyone on schedule.

“We can talk about concepts together, we can model lessons together, [and] I can give activities and homework assignments together,” said the Superintendent through a virtual news conference on Tuesday.

Group A students will go to school in person on Tuesday and Thursdays, while Group B learns from home. Then on Wednesdays and Fridays Group B will have their turn inside the classroom.

Dr. McDaniel said the district decided to take this route to help students stay more engaged in learning.

“It also only allows for one day at a time where a student loses direct instruction,” he said.

The district said this plan will move forward as long as the COVID-19 infection rate stays steady in Oklahoma County.

“Last Friday October 2, we were Orange Level 1, so if we can hit that again this Friday the 9th, we are on full go to return Pre-K and K kids on the 19th.” he said.

All other OKCPS families will receive their student’s group assignments after Fall Break, before they go back to class the week of November 9.