UMATILLA COUNTY â More Oregon students will likely be returning to classrooms soon as Gov. Kate Brown announced on Wednesday, Dec. 23, that metrics for reopening classrooms would shift from mandatory rules to guidelines.
She directed the Oregon Department of Education and Oregon Health Authority to work with school districts to create plans based on science to put more students âon trackâ to return to the classroom by Feb. 15, 2021.
While the change gives districts the power to decide for themselves when to reopen, Brown emphasized that school districts should be working health experts to make decisions based on health and safety, and that schools choosing to reopen will still be required to follow mandates such as mask-wearing and social distancing in the classroom.
The Hermiston City Council said goodbye to two members and saw three new ones sworn in during their Monday, Dec. 14 meeting.
It was the last meeting for Manuel Gutierrez, who did not run for another term in preparation for a move outside city limits, and David McCarthy, who lost his bid for reelection.
Mayor David Drotzmann presented Gutierrez with a parting award, recognizing him for 15 years of service to the city, including his recent eight-year stint on the council, a previous four-year term on the council and years on the cityâs budget committee and Hispanic Advisory Committee.
âIâve looked up to you and your relationships with our Latino community,â Drotzmann told Gutierrez. âYouâve been a strong advocate for our community, not just for Latino residents but for all residents, always advocating to make sure weâre looking out, especially, for the âlittle guy.ââ