Batavia middle, high school students to begin hybrid learning model

BATAVIA – Batavia high school and middle school students will transition to a "hybrid" model of instruction beginning next month.

According to a letter from Batavia Public Schools 101 to families, Batavia High School students will begin hybrid on Monday, Oct. 19, as that is the first day of the second term, while Rotolo Middle School students will transition to hybrid on Monday, Nov. 16 as that is the first day of the second trimester.

Students will be put into two groups based on last time, and attend classes in-person on alternate days. District staff will use the time before the hybrid model begins to plan the details.

"After much discussion and deliberation, BPS101 has made the decision to proceed with a learning mode change at RMS and BHS," the letter stated. "Local conditions are not barriers at this time, and we feel the time is right to move forward. We now have experience in following IDPH guidelines; safety protocols at the elementary level have proven to be effective. We have experienced how 6-foot social distancing in classrooms, cafeterias and other learning environments can be accommodated. Additionally, the local spread of COVID for 60510 continues to fall within IDPH guidelines for returning to school. The dedication and commitment of our staff is also a major factor! We are now confident in moving forward with this change."

The letter also stated that the district is planning on communicating more details in the coming weeks.

The letter reminded to families to continue to wear a mask, wash hands and maintain proper social-distance to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community. It concluded with a call for more substitute teachers, and provided a link to the Kane County Regional Office of Education for more information on how to become a substitute.