Welcome back! I hope you all had a restful and safe Thanksgiving break. Believe it or not, we are now in December, which means the start of the second semester – January 28 – is getting closer. Last month, the Board voted to implement the hybrid learning model at the start of the second semester.

Understandably, I have heard lots of comments and concerns about a hybrid reopening.

Like everyone else, I am concerned with the recent upward trajectory of COVID-19 metrics in our county, in our state, and in our country. But we must continue preparing for hybrid instruction.

Scheduling this model takes considerable time and planning, and we must start that process.

One of the first steps is the completion of intent forms for families and staff. We will be sharing those with the FCPS community Friday, December 4. 

Also, keep in mind, FCPS is currently supporting the educational needs of students who have returned in small groups across the county, and we have been successful with limiting COVID-19 outbreaks to just one, which did not involve students. 

The January 28 target date established by the Board as a return to hybrid learning model is merely a targeted date for which FCPS can base the plans for returning. If the metrics and outbreaks in our buildings continue to worsen, I have been given the authority by our Board to modify the plans in collaboration with the Frederick County Health Department. I will continue regularly speaking with Frederick County Health Officer Dr. Barbara Brookmyer.

Throughout December and January, we will be sharing updates across all of our communications platforms about mask usage, building ventilation, cleaning protocols, and more. We remain committed to keeping our community updated.