Limited Hybrid Model Coming to Head Start

posted 2/12/21 -- LCCAA Head Start will welcome a limited number of students back for in person learning beginning March 2.

The students will be using a hybrid program with in person learning two days a week and virtual learning two days a week. All in person classes for the hybrid model will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Wellington’s hybrid students will have virtual learning on Mondays and Fridays. All other hybrid students will have virtual learning on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Students eligible for the hybrid program are those who will be transitioning to kindergarten this fall, including those on individual education plans (IEPs), said Shauna Matelski, Ed.D., Head Start Director. All other students will continue virtual learning.

New procedures implemented in the fall will continue including curbside drop off and pickup, temperature checks, and hand washing as soon as children arrive. Parents and guests are still not permitted in LCCAA Head Start Centers.

Hybrid students will receive food service while they are at the centers. Meal pickup will continue for the days they are virtual and for all other virtual students.

Family Service Workers will contact families to verify their inclusion in the hybrid program and answer any questions. During in person instruction, children will be required to wear masks. LCCAA will provide masks if needed.

“We all want our centers full of children again and the joy they bring to learning and life in general,” Matelski said. “I’m hopeful that we can add more students to this hybrid model and expand in person learning soon.”

Most centers will be operating on shortened hours. Hopkins-Locke, Cascade and Griswold centers will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. LaGrange will operate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wellington will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Firelands will operate from 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Most hybrid students will not have scheduled naps at the centers.

For additional information and tips, please see our FAQ and this checklist from the CDC which includes tips to help children wear masks in school.