With Covid cases climbing locally, RPS decides to stick with current learning model

Rochester Public Schools announced Friday it will keep its current learning model through the months of October and most of November, citing concerning Covid-19 trends in the Rochester area.

Elementary schoolers will continue to use a “hybrid” learning model, going to in-person classes every other day. Most middle and high school students will remain under a full-time distance learning model.

In August, Superintendent Michael Muñoz promised an update on Phase 2 of the district’s “Return to Learn” plan by MEA break. Now, on day two of said break, the superintendent said a recent increase in Olmsted County case rates — doubling from roughly 13 the first week of school to the latest report of 24.5 — was one of the main factors that went into the district’s decision to keep restrictions at the same level for the fall.

“Unfortunately, the county and District data continue to trend the wrong direction,” wrote Muñoz. “For the health and safety of our community, RPS will not be adjusting our learning model at this time. This may be disappointing news to some, but based on the current information available to us, this is the best decision for our students and staff.”

Munoz says the next update will come by Monday, November 23 — the beginning of the shortened Thanksgiving school week.

Read the district’s full release, plus guidelines for parents, here.