Correction: A misunderstanding over the statement released to parents for upcoming instruction plans for the Park School District was my fault, and not that of PSD. No instruction will take place for students following this upcoming pause to the school year on Mondays until the first semester concludes. -KtE

A deep cleaning and time to prepare additional digital instruction is requiring the Polk School District to take the week off starting on August 17, and will move to four days a week of in-person instruction according to the latest from district officials.

Superintendent Laurie Atkins said that no change in the 180 day academic calendar will be made, and the same break schedule will be maintained.

In a letter to parents shared by Atkins stated that the District believes in-person classroom learning is the best way to educate children, but that increased guidelines for mandatory quarantines of classrooms with positives reported from the Department of Public Health require a change to the way the district does business.

“While we understand an adjustment to our normal schedule at this time may be an inconvenience to our families, we appreciate your patience and understanding of our attempt to keep our students in school despite many agency mandates/factors outside of our control that our influencing our day-to-day operations,” the letter stated.

Starting on August 17, campuses are closing down through August 24 to allow for a deep cleaning of classrooms after both teachers and students have tested positive and are required to go into quarantine. This will also allow time for teachers to work on their digital classrooms.

A new four day a week starts on August 24 with Monday now reserved for teacher preparation time, and Tuesday through Friday for in-person instruction. The change to the schedule will stay in place through at least the first week of January.

The district is asking parents to help in the fight against COVID-19 in local schools.

“As recommended by the department of public health, should your child feel sick or exhibit symptoms, please keep them home,” the letter stated. “In addition, if your child has been tested for COVID-19, please keep them at home until you receive the results. This will help us by limiting exposure within our schools.”

The letter concluded with the District thanking parents for their understanding.

“We appreciate your partnership as we continue to navigate uncharted territory,” the letter stated. “Your student’s education, health and well-being is our number one priority.”