By Superintendent Kurt Steinhaus
Los Alamos Public Schools

Earlier this evening (Thursday), the Los Alamos School Board unanimously voted to have all five elementary schools transition to the hybrid learning model beginning Monday Sept. 21.

The hybrid model consists of students physically attending school two days a week and working remotely three days a week.

Half of the students attend on Monday and Tuesday (green track) and the other half attend on Thursday and Friday (gold track).

Wednesday is reserved for parent conversations, small group work, professional development and planning. Classrooms and school facilities will be cleaned and disinfected on Wednesdays.

All of this is aligned with the New Mexico Public Education Department Re-start Plan. There will be strict adherence to safety standards for wearing masks, washing hands, and following physical distancing requirements. We are fortunate to have a full-time nurse in every LAPS school. 

The Los Alamos Middle School is scheduled to transition to the Hybrid Model Oct. 5. The Topper Freshman Academy and High School will transition Oct. 19. These dates are with approval from the Governor as well as addressing requirements from the state medical advisory team.

Students enrolled in the Los Alamos Online Academy and Topper Virtual Academy will continue with 100 percent remote learning.

“This was a difficult decision,” School Board President Ellen Ben-Naim said, “but one that we feel is right for our students and parents.

Tomorrow (Friday) morning, I will meet with our Principals to work on finalizing transition plans that have been under development since June. More information about the hybrid opening will be sent to parents by school Principals.

I have no doubt that our teachers and school staff will continue to give it their best and will implement these new strategies with quality and gusto.

Thanks for your patience and understanding as we work together for the benefit of students and safety for all involved.