Plymouth parents rally for full-time return to classroom

PLYMOUTH, Mass. — Parents in Plymouth met to rally Monday night for an earlier opening of Plymouth Public Schools, which was slated for Apr. 26, 2021.

The state had recommended an Apr. 1 return to full in-person learning. Plymouth School Committee member James Sorenson addressed the crowd of some 20 parents.

“High priority, your kids, my kids, what we’re debating is the paces,” said Sorenson on the front stairs of the Plymouth Public Schools administration building before heading in to a meeting and a vote on a possible earlier return to class.

Frustrated parents outside were demanding their kids go back to the classroom full-time.

“That’s great, I’m excited they are getting ready to get the kids back to school but when?”

Inside, the vote was based on a proposal by Plymouth School Superintendent Christopher Campbell.

“People want to go back tomorrow because they’re frustrated, and their kids are suffering. This is not a good situation for anybody,” said Kim Savery, who is the chair of the school committee.

The vote resulted in a Mar. 29 return date for students grades K-5. A full return for middle and high school students was not set. That will be addressed at the next school committee meeting on Mar. 15.

Parents are happy for the most part.

“That’s what we’re out here for. If it’s one day sooner, then we succeeded,” said Matt Pollara, who is a parent of two school children.

He joined Christie Nelson, who heads the group Plymouth Full Time School Supporters. She is glad, but wishes the return was even earlier, so middle and high school aged children can get back to class as well.

“I’m happy that it’s moved up,” said Christie Nelson.

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