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WWPS still Targeting Oct. 26 PK-2 Return Date

Viral indicators continue downward trend prompting further planning for in-person learning

Monday’s Walla Walla County Department of Community Health viral disease activity report revealed COVID cases continue to decline prompting the district to further plan for an Oct. 26 return to school for preschool through second grade students. Walla Walla Public Schools established viral benchmarks, consistent with State Department of Health guidelines that transitions back its youngest learners first, followed by the remaining student population. Referred to as the Safely Reopening Schools Roadmap, once case counts meet established thresholds, the district will safely transition from distance learning to an AM/PM hybrid schedule, starting first with its youngest learners.  

“This is good news and a key benchmark necessary to continue moving forward with our Yellow Stage Transition Planning timeline,” said School Board President Sam Wells. “Over the coming days we will continue to monitor case trends, have directed district staff to work with our union to finalize transition plans, and will evaluate stakeholder input prior to our Oct. 20 Board review and decision.”

Additional information for parents will be mailed home later this week to preschool-2nd grade households so that families can plan and prepare for the Oct. 26 Yellow Stage Transition should it receive Board approval. Information includes:

• Safety, Communication and Transparency Measures 

• Mandatory Daily Health Screening Protocols

• Daily Schedule for PK-2nd Grade AM/PM Hybrid 

• Daily Educational Experience and Accommodations

• Face Mask Requirements

• Safety and Cleaning Protocols

• Transportation Services• Nutrition Services

Walla Walla Public Schools Board of Directors will conduct its regularly scheduled Business Meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 5:30 p.m. Community members have an opportunity to share their input on the topic for public record prior to the meeting. As advertised last week, public comments must be submitted by email to Administrative Assistant Susie Golden at sgolden@wwps.org by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14. Comments will be public record and shared with the school board in advance of the meeting and posted on the district’s website. Public comments must include the citizen’s name, address and contact information. Citizens may also drop off comments at the District Office drop box located at 364 S. Park St. The drop box is located adjacent to the main entrance. 

More information regarding the district’s Safely Reopening Schools Plan, visit: https://www.wwps.org/safely-reopening-schools

WALLA WALLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS • 364 South Park St. • Walla Walla, WA 99362 • Phone: 509-527-3000 • Fax: 509.529.7713

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