AKRON, Ohio — With COVID-19 numbers continuing to rise throughout Ohio and in Summit County, the Akron Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously on Monday to remain in remote learning for the remainder of the calendar year.
The district says in-school assistance will be made available for students who are determined to be in need of help.
Teachers and principals will assess which students will need assistance, which could range from academic to mental health services and more. According to the district, transportation will be available and all health and safety protocols will be adhered to strictly.
Akron Public Schools voted to start the 2020-21 school year with remote learning in July. "It is our belief this is the best way to begin; the safest way for the greatest number of students and staff," said Superintendent David James at the time.
In August, the board voted to delay the start of classes two weeks and passed a resolution delaying athletics, including practices, and extra curricular activities for nine weeks. Athletic competitions and sporting events were to be prohibited through at least October 1. After pushback from the community, the Akron Public Schools reversed its decision and voted to allow fall contact and non-contact sports to resume on August 31.