TPS Officials Recommend Classes Continue In-Person, Special Meeting To Discuss Data

Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Deborah Gist and her team made the recommendation to the Board of Education on Monday that classes continue in-person for students in Pre-K through third grade. They also recommended a special meeting to analyze data related to the spike in COVID-19 cases.

The district said at least 10 classes have already shifted back to distance learning after returning to in-person last week. Dr. Gist said the district can shift anytime it is necessary to keep everyone safe.

Related Story: Thousands Of TPS Pre-K, Kindergartners Return To In-Person Learning

Dr. Gist reported a staff member is in serious condition because of the virus. She said the district will continue to be transparent, but respect privacy, when positive cases happen.

“What I do want you to know is that we have and we will report on every positive case and potential exposure for which we receive notification,” said Dr. Gist.

The superintendent said some of the thresholds her team looks out for were already crossed last week. When this happens, her team will meet to analyze the data and make recommendations to the board.

“If nothing changes we are going to most likely continue to see these rates increase and therefore see that impact our schools,” said Jorge Robles, Tulsa Public Schools.

Related Story: TPS Says Student, Staff Safety Is Priority As Some Students Return To In-Person Class

A notice of a special meeting must be filed with a notice of 48 hours.