Cincinnati Public Schools Board looks at options for return in the fall

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Cincinnati Public Schools is trying to figure out how students will return in the fall and what social distancing will look like inside its 52 schools.

A total of five models were presented. They involve in-person and blended learning, splitting time between school and home. Some plans include social distancing of six and three feet.

"I’m not interested in any plan that isn’t six feet, mandated six feet,” said CPS School Board Member Mike Moroski.

The models are:

Plan 1: All students, minimum two days in-person per week; alternating weeks three days.

Plan 2: Pre-K-6th grade, in-person three days a week. Grades 7-12, in-person two days a week.

Plan 3: Pre-K-6th grade, in-person four days a week. Grades 7-12, in-person two days a week.

Plan 4: All grades five days in-person per week.

Plan 5: All grades, four days in-person per week.

Plans 1, 2 and 3 will have six feet of social distancing. Plans 4 and 5 will have three feet of social distancing.

Nearly 1,000 people logged onto the board meeting, mostly parents and teachers. All voiced concerns about moving forward.

"I’m really hoping they do go back to school and then we can see their smiles and encourage them to be around other children and to learn,” said Laney Rush.

All five options come with additional cost to the district.

"There is not a one-size-fits-all solution to this," said Lydia Bowers.

While many parents voiced similar concerns, it was clear parents want some portion of learning in the school and not at home.

"Everybody needs the social development. The parents can’t be expected to provide that for them. That’s the one thing we can’t do is give them time with their teachers and time with their friends,” said one parent named Jillian.

The district is also considering staggering dismissals, smaller class sizes, meals in the classrooms and masks and temperature checks. Spaces like gyms and auditoriums may also be used as classrooms.

Parents voiced concerns about looking into using spaces at Great American Ball Park, Paul Brown Stadium, the Freedom Center, Cincinnati Museum Center and other museums. Superintendent Dr. Laura Mitchell says inquiries at many places like those venues have already happened and space isn’t available.

"We do want kids to go back and learn in a normal way, but we also have to be realistic about safety and people’s health and children’s health,” said one parent.

Many times it was mentioned that no matter what plan is chosen, not everyone will be happy.

Last month, CPS revealed 71% percent of parents who took a survey are not in favor of remote learning.

The school board hopes to have a decision by the end of June.