Whether or not to re-open K-12 schools for in-person instruction in the fall has become a heated national debate. We’ll examine what factors are being considered in Maine, from public health concerns to the role schools play in providing instruction and support to families. We will hear from state leadership, educators, a health professional, students and parents to explore the complex dilemma of how to keep kids learning during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Guests
- Pender Makin, Commissioner of Maine’s Department of Education
- Beth French, elementary school teacher, East Belfast School; president, RSU 71 Education Association
- Dora Mills, chief health improvement officer, MaineHealth
- Stephanie Clisham, rising sophomore at Hampden Academy; member of the Department of Education’s student cabinet
- Carrie Woodcock, Executive Director, Maine Parent Federation
- Eileen King, executive director, Maine School Superintendents Association
Resources
- Whether — And How — Maine Schools Will Reopen Remains Uncertain
- Mills Administration Unveils Plan For Helping Schools Struggling With Reopening Decisions
- When Can Kids Go Back To School? Leaders Say 'As Soon As It's Safe'
- Maine DOE Framework for Returning to Classroom Instruction
- Distance Learning Parent Resources from the DOE
- Helping Kids Get Used to Masks
- New York State Education Department Issues Guidance to Reopen New York State Schools, Guidance For High Needs Students
- K-12 Remote Learning: How Are Teachers, Students & Parents Managing At-Home Learning?
- National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative
