The majority of New Mexico schools were making plans to open by mid-August. Some districts were planning a hybrid opening which includes on campus classes a few days a week as well as online classes on alternating days. However, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said on Thgursday during her Face Book Live press conference, to protect the health of students, their families, and school employees, public schools will not be allowed to hold on campus classes at this time.
She said exceptions might be made for schools to teach students with special needs, in small groups or one-on-one settings. They may also teach groups of K-3 students in person, in groups of 5 or less following strict COVID guidelines. She encourages schools to begin online instruction in August, but gives each district the ability to set their own start dates.
This mandate will last at least until September 7, 2020.
She said if the COVID spread flattens in New Mexico by Labor Day, schools may slowly begin bringing students back to school. This will be a phased in hybrid model starting with the youngest students, followed by middle school then high school. There was no mention as to how long each of the phases might last.
She added that the PED and the ECECD are collaborating to find child care options throughout the state. And that Higher Education, colleges and universities, will be online and remote across their campuses this fall too.