Still no announcement on back to school plans for BPS, but parents can always opt for remote learning

BOSTON — Will Boston school children return to the classroom part time or stay home full time? That is still unclear as the district now asks for parents’ input.

Brenda Cassellius, the Superintendent of Boston Public Schools says learning what parents are thinking has already begun as of Wednesday.

“We started this afternoon and have already had about two thousand responses,” said Cassellius.

But there are more than 50,000 students in Boston schools. So, if families do not respond, their children will be placed into the hybrid model.

“If they do not reply, we will put them into in person,” said Cassellius, alluding to the in-person part of the hybrid model plan.

While educators are working on how students will return to class, school buildings are also being prepared. Sam Depina addressed the facilities preparations currently underway.

“As of today, so far this summer we have 121 of 125 school cleanings completed,” said Depina.

To that end, making sure schools have sufficient ventilation is a priority. The school department has ordered 3,000 fans and PPE will be provided. That includes 70,000 reusable masks donated by the Red Sox.

Nurses too will play a vital role if students return to in-person learning. Suzanne Salter Bennett is the Nursing Program Director for the district. She says students will be monitored and have the ability to wash their hands which is crucial to stay healthy.

“Access to hand washing is available throughout all of our buildings,” said Bennett.

While the district waits on the parents’ response on which model they prefer for their child, the Superintendent Cassellius says the family will always have the final say.

“Parents will always be able to choose remote,” said Cassellius.

In Boston, the decision on how students return to school is the superintendent’s, but she’s made it clear that her decision will come after seeking input from the Mayor Walsh, Boston’s Health Department city and of course, parents.

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