Gov. Ned Lamont released a first draft Thursday of what back to school might look like in the fall.
Lamont says it's one of the most complicated parts of the reopening process. K-12 schools will look different, but officials are hoping not by much.
Officials want the school year to start as close to normal as possible.
Desks will be spread out to ensure social distancing, and everyone will be required to wear masks inside and on buses. Neither Lamont nor Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona mentioned reducing class size.
Gymnasiums and auditoriums may be reconfigured to help with social distancing.
Reopening schools will be consistent throughout the entire state.
The state's largest teachers union says Lamont's plan did not provide enough specifics. They're asking for smaller class sizes, more PPE and a commitment to disinfect schools every day.
The plan will change and more details will be released as the school year gets closer. The state will release in-depth guidelines Monday.
BRIEFING UPDATES:
- 45,994 people have tested positive (+81)
- 4,298 people have died (+11)
- 122 people are currently hospitalized (-2)
- 406,967 tests have been reported (+6,576)
-Reopening schools for next school year will be the same throughout the state.
-Commissioner of Education Miguel Cardona said schools should expect for a full reopening in the fall.
-Desks will need to be spread out and everyone should wash hands frequently.
-Everyone will be required to wear masks.
-Gyms and auditoriums will be used to ensure social distancing.
-If cases go up, districts will need to go back to remote learning.