Orange County Schools to stay in remote learning beyond first four weeks

While some parents supported the online academy and keeping students and teachers safe, others said it would be detrimental to their children's overall education if they do get back in the classroom.

Posted 3:26 a.m. Jul 21, 2020 — Updated 9:53 p.m. Jul 21, 2020

Kirsten Gutierrez

, WRAL reporter

HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. — In a special meeting Monday, Orange County Schools passed a motion to stay in remote learning for longer than the initial four-week plan.

While some parents supported the online academy and keeping students and teachers safe, others said it would be detrimental to their children’s overall education if they do get back in the classroom.

Last week the school district voted for Plan C, which meant all online learning.

“I’m all for it [possibly going 9 weeks of online learning.] My thing is, just the safety of the kids. I’m also a childcare teacher. And so we’re trying our best to make sure that the kids are our top priority.," said Tequila Daye, a parent of a student in Orange County.

While some supported an online approach, others believed it will only create more issues.

“I know the answer is not simple, but for us, remote learning is not a choice. It drives barriers of inequality. Creates a divide and it deprives the children and working class families. Those of us who may have two parents in the home and are working eight hours a day. Then we can’t devote eight hours," Jennifer Olson, another parent in Orange County.

While the district is starting the year fully remotely, administrators were hopeful to eventually transition into Plan B, which would be a hybrid model of virtual and in-person instruction.

“It sounded like they wanted to do a synchronous day where people will login at the beginning of the school day at eight or 830 and take attendance. And then they go into a literacy block. And then they have a break. And then they have a math block. And then they get a snack. Running that kind of day from my home is just not feasible," said Olson.

Despite Plan C or B, starting August 17 grading and attendance will be the same as it was before COVID-19.

The school district will start delivering devices such as computers and iPad to students beginning August 10.

Suggest A Correction