Thousands of schools across the nation are open and operating successfully using a hybrid program. There is no substitute for in-person learning and no valid excuse for why the children of the Issaquah School District can not be back in school safely. With proper care and safeguards in place, in-person learning can and IS being safely achieved all over our country and world-wide! The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that schools open.

Many students, even those who were previously high-performing, are now failing and the problem is widespread. Educators across WA have acknowledged this. Many children's social, emotional and physical needs are not being met, and in some cases, are being threatened. The negative social, emotional and educational impact of our children missing in-person school will have a long-term impact far beyond the reach of any virus.

This week, King Co. published a Public Health Alert stating that 4 teenagers in King Co. have died by suicide during the month of October. How can we stand by seeing the very real and devastating effects that distance learning is having on our kids' mental health?

For those of you who wish to remain at home -- we support you. Our goal is for everyone to have a CHOICE. If it's not right for your family, absolutely make the choice to keep your children home. We are simply asking for a program that serves ALL students' needs, not just those that choose to remain at home.

Please sign AND add a comment explaining WHY you think hybrid learning should happen in ISD!