Suburban teachers challenge return to classrooms in Minnesota

Actions put focus on safety risks in hybrid plans

Aug 18, 20200

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Teachers and supporters gathered to protest the hybrid teaching return to school this fall because they feel it is not safe especially for students and faculty in eastern part of Osseo school district. Community members and educators advocate for a safe return to school for Osseo school district students by having them start in distance learning. RICHARD TSONG-TAATARII • richard.tsong-taatarii@startribune.com

Teachers arrived by the dozens, parking in rows and brandishing signs outside Osseo Area Schools headquarters, and right on cue at 4:30 p.m., they began to honk their horns.

They were there Thursday to draw attention to concerns about staff and student safety in a pandemic - fears many now are facing as the district plans to begin the year with a hybrid of virtual and in-person instruction. A sign blanketing a windshield offered a popular view: "Stay Online Until COVID Declines."

Plans for the fall are taking shape across the metro area, and teachers in Osseo and elsewhere are aiming to make sure their voices are heard.

https://www.startribune.com/suburban-teachers-challenge-return-to-minn-classrooms/572141472/