Some board members urged returning to in-person classes Monday for the mental health of students and because many children are struggling with learning under the online format. In a letter to the district, Douglas County Public Health Officer Kathy Ronchi said she supported returning to in-person instruction when possible.
Other board members were concerned that opening buildings up during a high level of COVID-19 activity in the county could expose some teachers to hundreds of students. Board member Brian Johnson wondered how many parents would even send their children back as there are only seven days before holiday break.
A number of school officials were split on the decision, including the administration team. On a staff survey, roughly 60% of teachers who responded reported they did not feel comfortable returning to in-person classes, Croney said.