The following message was issued by Hastings School Superintendent Dr. Robert McDowell on the change in learning models.

I know the learning model change is a relief for some and creates anxiety for others. I also know the decision makes sense to some, while is a confusing move to others. Regardless of where you might fall on these continuums, I assure you we are taking as much care with our planning as we possibly can. That said, it is important for everyone to keep in mind that this shift in the district learning model is still a month away, and much can change between now and then. This update provides a few more logistical details. It is especially important that elementary families read the entire update as there are opportunities to make some decisions about your elementary student’s experience. I am so grateful for this community’s support of our staff and resilience through this past year. I hope you have a relaxing and safe winter break!

Learning Model Shift

The district learning model uses the illustration of the dial; during this school year, our distance learning model has seen shifts from hybrid to distance learning and beginning January 19, 2021, students in kindergarten, first and second grade will shift learning models from distance learning to traditional in-person learning. What does this mean?

Students in grades kindergarten through grade 2 will attend full-time, in-person learning 5 days per week.

The school time schedule remains the same as when the district was in hybrid (school begins at 9:40 and ends at 3:25).

Any child who participates in the Hastings Online Academy will continue learning virtually 4 days per week with Wednesday Flex Days. Guidance from the state requires a “rolling start” which means that we plan for children in grades 3 & 4 to transition to full-time, in-person learning 5 days per week beginning February 1.

Elementary Families! Learning Model Change request

We are offering families of elementary children another opportunity to make a change to their child’s learning model.

We will plan for each child to continue in their current preference – either the district learning model (which may shift between in-person, hybrid and distance learning) or Hastings Online Academy (full time distance learning).

Athletics Update See Learning Model Page 5

Dr. Robert McDowell New learning model

From Page 1

In accordance with Executive Order 20-99, the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) has adopted a newly amended calendar for Hastings High School winter sports. In-person practices for winter athletics will begin on Monday, January 4. A full informational release for families is posted on the Raiders athletics website, accessed directly here. Student- athletes must be registered no later than 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, December 22 in order to be fully cleared to start on January 4. Head coaches remain the best point of contact for sport-specific questions. Please be sure to notify the nurse at your child’s school if your child has been exposed to someone with COVID-19, if they have symptoms, if you suspect they might have COVID-19, and/or if they have tested positive. This is especially true for middle school and high school athletes as the Minnesota State High School League has requirements for students participating in sports who have had COVID-19.