Ayustyat” o; u; deysta; dabre, but prex” b” r” ty ” s ’ ey

Re: “Parents feel misled as four high schools delay in- person classes,” Oct. 1 news story

Denver Public Schools has long valued providing school leaders with the ability to lead with as much flexibility as possible to make decisions. Being able to adjust to the needs of the community is a huge part of what makes our schools successful.

Principals know their community best and understand the needs of their students. With the flexibility to make decisions that align with their school’s unique needs, schools aren’t tied to a one- size- fits- all approach that may not work well universally.

Having that flexibility has become even more critical during a pandemic. Student populations differ, each school’s building facilities are different and the number of staff needing to work remotely due to health risks varies greatly.

In working with our secondary principals, they shared concerns about the challenges in moving to in- person instruction. We listened to our educators and worked to give flexibility in delivering the best education we safely can.

Especially at our large, comprehensive high schools, we granted the flexibility to continue to provide core academic instruction online for the second quarter and use in- person time for counseling, wraparound support and enrichment. All students who requested in- person learning will be provided with these opportunities.

I completely understand the frustration of our families. We very much feel it, too. Trying to navigate the complexities of schedules and critical health safeguards is challenging amidst a global pandemic. We continue to prioritize health and safety, and to listen to and empower our educators while offering the best educational programming we can to our students.

Michael J. Ramirez, Denver