Union Public Schools to shift to distance learning

(TULSA, Okla.) Union Public Schools is shifting all elementary and secondary students to distance learning beginning Friday, Dec. 4. Students at all school sites will remain in distance learning through Dec. 18 and will not return to in-person school until Jan. 4, 2021. “The number of adult positive cases and the number of adults in quarantine are the highest we’ve experienced to date,” said Superintendent Kirt Hartzler. “It’s negatively impacting our ability to safely conduct school for students and the safety of our staff. This data, coupled with the recent Tulsa Health Department recommendation that in-person learning is not advised at this time, is why we are pivoting to distance learning for all grades for the remainder of this semester.” As of today’s case counts, Union had 27 staff members positive for COVID-19 and an additional 122 in quarantine due to close contact. Currently, 48 students are COVID-positive and in isolation and an additional 443 in quarantine due to close contact. Districtwide, there are 640 staff and students either in isolation or quarantine. “Please know this has been a very difficult decision to make, but the safety of our students and staff is paramount,” said Hartzler. “I know this transition will be challenging for many. Our teachers, principals and support staff will do their best to provide the support, attention, and care that our students will need as they work to close out the semester. Our Child Nutrition Department will also be working on a plan to ensure our students are provided meals during this time.”