Pleasanton Unified Unveils Plans To Reopen Schools

PLEASANTON, CA — Pleasanton Unified School District Superintendent David Haglund gave parents an idea of what the coming school year could look like in a letter sent to the school community this week.

He stressed that plans could be subject to change and the school year could even be called off again. PUSD will notify families if any changes arise, he said. But in the meantime, district officials have established a framework for the coming school year.

“Please know that whatever mandates are imposed upon us, we will quickly adapt to ensure that students receive the best learning experience possible,” Haglund wrote. “Our plans embody the flexibility needed to adjust, slide, and stretch to ever-changing circumstances.”

PUSD has planned for three instructional models: a home school learning option; an online program known as FLEX Academy; and a hybrid model that could allow students to take turns learning at home and in the classroom with regular teacher check-ins, and eventually, transition to full-time on-campus learning, if officials allow. Online and home school students would still remain enrolled in their school and have the opportunity to participate in extra curriculars at their school.

Current public health guidelines dictate that all grade levels and staff would be required to wear face coverings, respect social distancing, conduct daily health screenings and stay home if showing symptoms.

Elementary students could receive on-campus and online teaching methods, and participate in either morning, mid-morning or early afternoon sessions, he wrote. Students would learn with their class and/or teachers who specialize in subjects.

Middle and high school students would take classes at specific times on specific days, with outdoor activities following social distancing guidelines and restricted access to shared equipment, Haglund wrote. On-campus students would stay within the same group of students and frequently wash or sanitize their hands.

“I would like to thank everyone for the support we have received throughout this pandemic,” he wrote. “We truly are in this together.”