Deschutes COVID-19 case surge also delays Redmond schools K-3 students’ return
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The recent rise in Deschutes County COVID-19 cases means Redmond schools also won't be able to bring kindergarten through third-grade students back to class in a hybrid part-time fashion until at least the week of Oct. 26.
The county's rate of 36.3 cases per 100,000 for last week is above the allowable 30 cases, delaying the return of students for on-site learning, the school district announced late Tuesday.
Bend-La Pine Schools made a similar announcement on Tuesday, while Crook County plans to return older students next week, due to its low COVID-19 case counts.
"This is not what any of us want to hear," the Redmond schools notice said, "as our district and school teams have been preparing and planning for the hopeful return of our students in K-3.
"As a reminder, our district is required to follow the guidelines established by the Oregon Department of Education, in consultation with the Oregon Health Authority.
"We know that this is challenging and uncertain for our students, families and team members. But we are here to support each of you as we continue our hopeful path for the return for our students to on-site learning," the district said.
The recent spike in cases means a reset timeline, meaning the requirements must be met for three weeks in a row before districts can announce a plan to return.
