RISD released its plans for the upcoming fall semester in late July. Here are five things to know prior to returning, according to the district. :
1. Families can change their minds about how their student attends school
Families will have the option to change their choice for face-to-face or virtual school following each nine-week grading period. Students will remain enrolled in their zoned school and will be able to transfer either to virtual school or in-person school at that same campus.
2. Masks are required at most times for most grades
Students in grades 3-12 are expected to wear face coverings at all times while on campus, except while eating or drinking. Students in grades pre-K-2 are required to wear face coverings in halls, common areas and during arrival and dismissal but are encouraged to wear face coverings in classrooms. Both masks and face shields are acceptable, per the district’s back-to-school blueprint.
The district will provide masks and face shields for students who need them and will replace damaged or defective face coverings if needed. Individuals who are unable to wear masks will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
3. School days have been extended by 10 minutes
School days for all grade levels will be extended by 10 minutes to accommodate staggered arrivals and departures.
- Elementary school days will begin at 7:50 a.m. and end at 3:10 p.m.
- Junior high school days will begin at 8:15 a.m. and end at 3:40 p.m.
- High school days will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 4:20 p.m.
4. Meals are still an option for virtual school students
Students attending virtual school will still have access to meals provided by the district. Several days' worth of meals will be available for pickup at one time, according to the blueprint. Teachers, campus principles or the virtual school director will provide pickup locations and times.
5. Campus resources are available to all students
Students in virtual school still have access to campus resources, such as the library, at specified times. Weekly on-campus experiences for subjects such as visual arts, physical education and music will also be available for students.
For more information on RISD’s back to school plans, visit www.RISD.org.
