As school reopening has occurred around the world, district leaders have faced the challenge of keeping schools open while maintaining safety and ensuring learning. This brief examines how one large district has kept its schools open using multilayered mitigation strategies.
The first step in starting a new school is to find the right location. It is important to select a neighborhood that aligns with your target families’ demands, needs and preferences. Additionally, it is helpful to know the age range of students in your targeted neighborhood so that you can determine what grades to offer.
Once you have identified your target audience, you will need to choose the type of school you want to open. There are many different options for new schools, including daycares, preschools, Montessori schools, bilingual schools and charter schools. It is also important to decide what curriculum you would like to offer. You will need to determine if you will be providing in-person instruction or online courses.
School closures during the pandemic have impacted students and families in various ways. For some, the loss of their educational experience has been a tremendous setback to their progress and development. For others, the decision to close their schools has allowed them to spend more time with their loved ones while remaining safe from the disease.
The reopening of schools depends on the underlying conditions, local and national policies and community engagement. Regardless of the approach, school reopening requires extensive planning and investment to ensure safe in-person learning. In New York City, this has been achieved through a robust infrastructure for viral testing and a commitment to multilayered mitigation.
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