By Marty Mayfield
KRTN Multi-Media
Dr. Christopher Bonn received word today, Monday October 5, 2020, that Raton High School has to cease and desist its hybrid model of learning immediately as the return to school toolbox plan that was submitted was approved by the New Mexico Public Education Department for grades K-6 but has not been approved by the health department officials for grades 7-12.
Raton High School had one day of classes today on the hybrid model of learning before the call from NMPED came informing them they had to call off in person learning and return to an online model only. The concern was the number of students that were moving about the hall between classes. Bonn noted that some schools had the idea of moving teachers but that too was nixed as that would expose teachers to a large number of different students.
When will students return to classes is not known at this time, according to Bonn. He added we continue to hold meetings to iron out the plans. Students who did attend classes today were glad to be back in class Bonn added. Teachers were also glad to be able to interact with students.
When asked if students could continue to practice sports, the answer is yes. Sports activities will continue as planned. Raton Volleyball is currently scheduled to play Mora in Raton on Saturday October 10.
Bonn noted that this change will not affect how Longfellow Elementary and Raton Intermediate Schools operate. Both schools will continue on their hybrid model for now.
As Raton continues down the online path IT Technology continues to be a struggle for some families. Bonn has heard from some parents who say this model isn’t working for us and we need to be back in school. Other families have expressed that the flexibility that online learning has afforded them is working well. Another problem that Raton High is dealing with is that students are working during school hours. Local employers have been asked to try and limit working students during school hours as students need to be working on class work. Unlike last spring when grades were not as important, this fall, grades and attendance are very important. As Bonn noted we are in school.
Stay tuned as often noted by Dr. Bonn things will change sometimes fast like the news today that it will be online learning at Raton High for the foreseeable future.
