Waukesha School District Approves 'Hybrid' Start To School Year

WAUKESHA, WI — The Waukesha School District Board of Education, after a lengthy debate, voted in favor of a hybrid model for schools this fall. Classes begin on Sept. 1. In Waukesha, teachers have to wear a mask and a face shield.

The vote was 5-4 in favor of the hybrid model. Before the meeting, there was a crowd of people holding signs outside the school district building on Maple Avenue. A parent clarified to Patch they weren't "protesting" but "advocating" for face to face learning.

During the meeting, around 30 students, faculty members and parents spoke.

"I support a phased reopening – not out of fear of this virus. I’m not afraid of getting sick. I am, however, extremely concerned for my students," said a teacher.

A sophomore student named Jordan stated kids need in-person learning for many reasons, including mental health.

"Kids need school," she repeated.

Clayton Schwalbe, a senior student, noted he was unable to learn properly in a virtual learning setting.

"Last year I couldn't learn the topics to the best of my abilities, even though I tried as hard as I could," Schwalbe said.

Parent Ben Menzel stated it isn't about who has the loudest voice or the most signs but what plan is the best for the safety and health for students.

"My son and wife (a teacher) want to be in school, but they need to be safe," Menzel said.

Another parent said safety is paramount and supports a phased-in approach.

"Yes, the best option is face-to-face and the best option is to not wear these masks," he said pointing to his face.

The parent added the district needs a phased-in approach so they can manage the risks and the needs of the students.

The board decided to look into middle and high school students attending classes virtually on Mondays — and alternate between in-person and virtual learning the rest of the week.

Elementary school students will attend in-person classes five days a week but with the option to go virtual.

The board turned down an earlier proposal that would have required all students to start the year online and work toward benchmarks for in-person learning.

Earlier in June, district officials sent a letter to parents, saying the administration was considering a "blended" combination of in-school and virtual learning, staggered daily in-school attendance schedules for students or staff, and full virtual learning.

"Our highest priority plan is getting our schools back to normal operating status and our students safely back to school," officials said at the time.