Schools move to 'Stage 3.0' of reopening

RITZVILLE - The Lind-Ritzville School District moved to Stage 3.0 of a phased-in, reopening program, Monday, Oct. 19.

"This means all K-5 students will have the opportunity to participate in the Hybrid A/B model," Superintendent Don Vanderholm said last Thursday. "After much consideration, we have decided to utilize a half-day, every day, Monday through Thursday schedule. We hope this will best suit the needs of students and families."

Vanderholm said all K-5 students are attending half-day every day except Fridays, which will continue to be staff development days.

All grades 6-12 students will continue in small groups, but on the same half-day schedule as K-5.

Pre-school has its own, separate schedule.

Vanderholm said the School District could move to an all-day, every-other-day schedule, if needed.

The district continues efforts to "be fully prepared for full-time, on-campus learning when the time comes," he said.

"Even in this limited mode of face-to-face instruction, some students and staff are working through the challenges of healthcare-directed exclusions from on-campus participation," Vanderholm said. "Online learning will never be the perfect option for every student, but we are getting better at it, every week.

The new schedule means a change in meal delivery.

Beginning Friday, Oct. 23, meal delivery will be Fridays only.

The Grab and Go Bag will contain five breakfasts and lunches for each student.

Pick up times are 11- 11:30 a.m. at New Hope, Ritzville City Park or Little League Park in Ritzville.

Students who live on bus routes will be notified of drop-off times.

The new schedule also brings a change in sports.

Athletic Director Greg Whitmore said athletic camps are from 3:45-5:15 p.m. The bus will depart Lind at 3:15 p.m., and depart Gilson Gym after practices at 5:15 p.m., he said.