RTL Update (1)

WDMCS Return-to-Learn Update

UPDATE (5:20 p.m., June 26): The Iowa Department of Education released a statement regarding the guidance for reopening schools published on June 25.

WDMCS families and staff,

After the Iowa Department of Education (IDOE) released its latest guidance for reopening schools yesterday, June 25, we received questions from many families, staff, and community members. West Des Moines Community Schools (WDMCS) values and takes seriously all guidance, including information from the Polk County Health Department and the IDOE. But we know it is up to us to create a 2020-21 school year that is safe and effective for students, families, and staff.

There are still many questions about what the 2020-21 school year will look like, and we will be providing more information to staff and families soon. Below are some key dates to remember:

  • July 1 – when all Return-to-Learn plans are due to the IDOE
  • July 9 – WDMCS Return-to-Learn Town Hall
  • Mid-July to early August  – WDMCS will communicate which Return-to-Learn plan will be in place when school starts on Aug. 26.

Drafts of three plans (Plan for Required Continuous Learning, Plan for Hybrid Learning, and Plan for On-Site Learning) have been shared with the WDMCS Board of Education as of June 22. Creating three dynamic plans allows us to safely and equitably provide students with the same excellent education WDMCS will always offer.

We commend you for your engagement, compassion, and patience as we continue to navigate this pandemic together. Please continue to watch for more Return-to-Learn information and an additional survey for families and staff in the coming weeks.

Thank you,
Superintendent Lisa Remy, Ed.D.
West Des Moines Community Schools