St. Paul Public Schools Introduce Temporary Online Learning Option Amid Immigration Crackdown
Roiled by an intensifying federal immigration crackdown, students in the St. Paul Public Schools will be allowed to register for temporary online learning without transferring out of their school, an option that takes effect Jan. 22. This move aims to provide a sense of stability and continuity for students who may be feeling anxious or uncertain about attending classes in person.
All 69 schools will be closed next Tuesday and Wednesday to give teachers time to prepare an online curriculum. Students will still have the choice of attending classes in person, ensuring that they can continue their education without interruption.
Creating Stability and Continuity
“This option is different from the SPPS Online School,” reads an announcement from the school district. “To the greatest extent possible, students will learn remotely with teachers and students from their current school for a temporary period of time.” This approach allows students to maintain their connections with their teachers and peers while also addressing their concerns about safety and well-being.
Last week, the school board announced that students could request enrollment in the district’s online school if they felt unsafe attending class. The board also called on federal immigration agents to leave the state, highlighting the need for a safe and supportive learning environment. According to Superintendent Stacie Stanley, “Our goal is for students to have the least disruptive experience. We are trying to create as much stability as possible.”
A Collaborative Effort
The school board held an emergency board meeting to finalize a memorandum of agreement with the St. Paul Federation of Educators, ensuring that teachers are prepared to support students in this new online learning environment. The board voted 5-1 to authorize Superintendent Stanley to execute the agreement, which was finalized less than an hour later. As Stanley noted, “We were here yesterday for seven hours. Things going back and forth in no way changed the service model. If anything, it may have enhanced it.”
While some details of the agreement are still unclear, the school district is committed to providing a high-quality online learning experience that meets the needs of all students. As the situation continues to evolve, the district will provide updates and guidance to families and students. For more information, visit Here
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