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Community split over Prince William County's plan to return to classroom

The Superintendent will update the School Board on the return to school Tuesday night at 6 p.m.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Prince William County Schools (PWSC) Superintendent, Dr. Steve Walts, will update the School Board on the plan to return to school, Wednesday night at 6 p.m. 

The school system recently released its hybrid model of in-person and virtual learning. Under that 50/50 hybrid plan, students in all grade levels will return to the classroom Nov. 10 two days a week. 

Students would still be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing. PWCS recently released pictures of what classrooms will look like. 

Some people are in support of the plan and others, including members of the Prince William County Education Association, believe virtual learning is what is best to keep students and staff safe.

PWEA released a statement Sunday against in-person learning, urging school leaders to continue with virtual instruction for the 'foreseeable future.' 

Parents in support of in-person teaching have mobilized on Facebook. The group calling itself "In-Person Learning in Quarter 2," held a small rally outside a Prince William County School Monday. 

"We need to send the kids back," said one parent, Elizabeth Gatto. "Virtual learning is not working. We see the private schools all around Northern Virginia they're in-person learning and thriving and our kids are falling behind."

During the scheduled meeting, parents who agree with the proposed in-person model are planning to rally outside of the meeting.

Members of the Prince William Education Association also plan to rally outside to protests the reopening of schools. 

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