MN was slightly behind other states in announcing school closures, but it's b/c they were putting together an incredibly thorough plan with an emphasis on clarity, order, equity & cross-agency cooperation. Really impressive. Other states can follow. 1/x.
Plan includes provisions/guidance for so many important things. To list a few: childcare will be provided for elementary aged children of first responders, schools/districts directed to incorporate *all* employees in their distance learning delivery, ...
...including bus drivers, paraprofessionals and others. Plan specifies a two-week planning period to prepare for what may be a long-term need for distance education provision. So glad to see acknowledgement that this will not be a 2 week problem.
Plan also includes guidance for ensuring equity given disparities in internet access, school lunch/breakfast program needs, and IEP requirements. They are working to replicate these supports in a distance environment.
Finally, Dept of Employment (@mndeed) included as a partner in a wider multi-agency plan in order to help support working parents who will need to say home to care for children.
Also cc @SasserModestino!
