Tonight following a joint press conference featuring Governor Cooper along with Democratic and Republican leadership from the NC House and Senate, the legislature passed a bipartisan bill that sets up a return to in-person learning for our children.
It's been a long few weeks but not as long as it's been for our children, parents, and educators. Getting students safely back into the classroom has always been a top priority and is a goal that everyone shares.
Today’s agreement ensures schools will return to in-person learning while requiring necessary safety measures and preserving the ability for state officials to respond to local emergencies.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Bill requires grades K-5 to open under Plan A (full in-person)
- Local districts can choose between Plan A or Plan B (hybrid in-person and virtual) or take advantage of both plans with grades 6-12
- Governor Cooper still retains ability to close school by district if deemed necessary by NCDHHS
- ABC collaborative will partner with schools and collect data and analyze data
This bill is a true compromise and an example of what can happen whenever we come together and put people - and in this case our children, first.
Thank you to our parents and educators for your amazing commitment to our children's education during this pandemic. I am hopeful that this step tonight and today is a step forward in a bipartisan way for education and our constitutional commitment to every child getting a sound and basic education.
Thank you to everyone who reached out to my office during this time to let me know where you stand. I'm grateful for your continued support.
In this together,
