(LaPorte County) - New Prairie United School District now has a plan for returning to school next month.

But right now, it’s a very fluid plan.

Similar to other districts, New Prairie will be watching COVID-19 trends and deciding between different options ranging from 100% normal to 100% e-learning.

All possibilities are outlined in a flowchart under three possible scenarios. If coronavirus cases reduce or stabilize in coming weeks, classes will begin as normal, with various safety protocols in place. If coronavirus surges, students will attend classes two days per week on a rotating basis. If the virus spreads substantially, e-learning will take place until the situation improves.

Overall, the plan presents at least half a dozen possibilities, giving administrators much more flexibility to adapt to the ever-changing status of public health. New Prairie Superintendent Dr. Paul White says he will continue working closely with other school districts as the situation develops.

 

According to a survey that went out in the district, 60% of parents endorse a complete return to classes as normal, with precautions in place. 20% of responders think masks should be mandatory.

28% prefer part-time weekly attendance, and 10% want to stay with all e-learning.

11 parents who responded to the survey say they are pulling their kids out of school.

The school district will make a determination on how to proceed in late July or early August. The start of school has been pushed back one day to August 13 in order to provide extra training for teachers and staff.