Red Lake Schools expands learning models to include onsite learning, by family choice

RED LAKE, MN – At the Regular School Board Meeting held on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, the Red Lake School Board by a vote of 5 (for)-1 (against)-1 (abstention), voted to allow the district to expand the learning models to include onsite learning, by family choice, beginning with Pre-Kindergarten thru Second Grade students, which would start on February 8th.

On or about February 22nd, students in Grades 3-8 would be able to attend onsite school, and in March students in grades 9-12 would be able to attend.

In a School Reach message sent out by Superintendent Melinda Crowley shortly after the Board Meeting, she stated, "As a district we will closely monitor the safety and health conditions of our students and staff. I will be sending our messages via Facebook, Websites, Red Lake Nation News (print and online), as well as school messenger in the next several days."

The message went on to state:

• First and foremost, families now have another option for the education of their students, in-person, or distance learning.

• Families are able to continue with Distance Learning for their children if they want. [It is their choice.]

• Starting tomorrow, Thursday January 21st, a team of school district employees will begin calling households of the students enrolled in Preschool, Kindergarten, First and Second Grade to ask about their preferences for their student's education.

• If your phone number has changed or if you are not called by the end of the day on Friday, January 22nd, please call the district office at 218-679-3353 then enter extension 1030.

• Further information will be sent out in the upcoming days ahead.

The School Board also heard and read reports from all departments, approved the minutes from December 16, 2020 and January 4, 2021, approved submission of the FY 2022 Impact Aid Application, approved the Memorandum of Understanding with MSBA for the pay differential for critical sector workers, and approved the list of bills for $2,580,388.83.