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The Mid-Prairie School Board and district administration are split on which learning model should be implemented for the upcoming school year. During a three-hour special meeting on Monday, three different learning delivery models that could be implemented were discussed, including the Home School Assistance Program, the newly approved Mid-Prairie Virtural Academy, and a part time in-person plan. This part-time plan would include separating the student body into two groups where one group would attend classes on Monday, Wednesday, and every other Friday, and the other group attends classes on Tuesday, Thursday and every other Friday. While Superintendent Mark Schneider and other administrators are in favor of the part-time schedule, school board members want to consider a full-time, in person option.Schneider explained why half-time was supported, “What we tried to do as an administrative team was just trying to come to a consensus about what we all can support. It wasn’t the favorite of everybody there. I can’t say there was a member of the administrative team that thought the recommendation was outstanding, but it was the best we can do when we considered all the different perspectives.”

 

School Board Vice President Jeremy Pickard voiced his concerns with the part-time option, saying many parents have approached him and want to return to on-site classes on August 24. Board members Mary Allred and Jeremy Gugel agreed, saying an on-site option should be in consideration before a final decision is made. The Mid-Prairie School Board and administration will meet on Monday at 7 p.m. in order to make a final decision on which model will be implemented.