Oakland Unified reaches deal to bring students back beginning March 30

Oakland Unified has joined the list of school districts that will begin bringing back small cohorts of students after striking a deal with the teachers’ union over the weekend.

The plan, which still has to be voted on by the Oakland Education Association and school board, would bring back students in two phases. Students in grades PK-2 and other high-needs students are invited to return beginning March 30. Starting April 19, in-person instruction will be expanded to grades 4 and 5, as well as “at least one secondary grade,” according to a district announcement.

“We reached a tentative agreement that is just, equitable, and most importantly, safe. We believe that phasing in student return on April 19 allows all educators to complete their vaccinations, if they so choose, and for California’s targeted vaccination program to reach our most vulnerable communities,” said Oakland Education Association President Keith Brown. “This agreement also provides time to engage in the work of setting up the next agreement for a comprehensive hybrid model, which would meet the unique needs of our students, families, and members.”

Students will be able to stay in distance learning if they choose to. More than half of elementary-age families said they would like to return to in-person instruction, according to a survey conducted by OUSD in early March that received responses from 92% of families with children in grades TK-5.

“This is a critical step forward for our students, families and staff, as we all can now see the light at the end of the tunnel of this year-long ordeal,” said Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell.