Minnesota teachers give nod to distance learning, survey shows

Jul 24, 20200

Aaron Lavinsky – Star Tribune count

Thirty chairs were spaced out six feet apart to demonstrate how difficult it would be to properly socially distance in a class room setting during Thursday's Education Minnesota Press conference at Cass Gilbert Memorial Park.

A statewide survey of more than 20,000 Minnesota educators found nearly half preferring to stay with distance learning this fall, but almost the same number backing a physical return with appropriate safety measures.

Still, support for a full five-day-a-week reopening proved a tough sell for respondents, according to Education Minnesota, the state's teachers union, which released the survey results Thursday.

The release came a week before Gov. Tim Walz is expected to weigh in with state guidance Thursday on schooling in the fall. Signs point to flexibility being offered to local districts.

https://www.startribune.com/state-s-teachers-give-nod-to-distance-learning-survey-shows/571884142/