Dear TSA Community-
I hope everyone had a joyful and restful holiday break!
Yesterday the Toledo School for the Arts Board Executive Committee approved a recommendation for a new plan to return to in-person instruction.
The Ohio Department of Health and the Toledo Lucas County Health Departments have determined that school faculty and staff will be included in the upcoming phase of COVID-19 vaccine distribution. The availability of the vaccine to staff and faculty will become the primary criteria by which we consider a return to in-person instruction.
We anticipate that approximately six weeks after the vaccine becomes available to faculty and staff, we will be able to consider a return to full in-person instruction, 5 days a week. I understand this represents a departure from the limited in-person model presented just this past month. We felt it was important to be flexible, given the recent developments with vaccine availability and also parental feedback about the logistical difficulties the limited in-person model may have presented for transportation and instruction.
In the meantime, we will continue with virtual instruction.
It is important to note that we do not have a firm date for when the vaccinations for teachers and staff will begin, and that process is not in control of the school. We are cooperating with local public health officials to ensure that the vaccine is available as soon as possible.
Is it also important to note that families will still have the option to remain all-virtual.
As planned, we will reintroduce in-person co and extra-curricular activities (on a case by case basis) including arts, student clubs, tutoring, and assistance for those students with special needs.
With this decision, we are committed to ensuring a safe classroom environment for our teachers, while also providing a true in-person learning experience for our students and families.
I appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we have taken great care in considering what’s in the best interest for all of our stakeholders and everyone associated with the TSA Community. I believe we are united in counting the days until we are back to normal!
Best Regards-
Dr Mead
