State Supt. Hofmeister Proposes ‘Continuous Learning Plan’ For Students During Pandemic

The school year isn’t over for Oklahoma’s students. 

Monday, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister announced a “continuous learning plan” that if approved would take effect April 6. 

“It is a real hurtle it’s something that we must make this decision in order to keep our students learning through the end of the year,” said Hofmeister. 

Amid fears of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Hofmeister said it’s imperative education not take a back seat. 

“We have work to do, we have education to provide and our children have a lot yet to learn,” said Hofmeister. 

She said through her continuous learning plan students would resume their education through distance learning. 

“The more separate our kids from the classmates at school and those gatherings the greater the opportunity we have to flatten the curve,” said Hofmeister. 

An education that adheres to CDC guidelines—but isn’t limited to online classes.

“Distance learning does not mean all virtual or all online. It may mean that a teacher is checking in or talking to students through telephone or through video chats, or other technology that is available,” said Hofmeister.  

She admits while learning from home comes with challenges for families with young children, she said they must be overcome to keep kids and their communities safe. 

“While these are difficult times, it is a time that is going to involve sacrifice and it is a time that we put the well-being of our family and others ahead of doing things the same way we always have,” said Hofmeister. 

Hofmeister will present her plan to the Board of Education Wednesday.