News: Catholic schools prepare for a return to the classroom

August 7, 2020

The Diocese of Des Moines has a comprehensive plan to reopen its 16 schools this fall. All diocesan grade schools plan to reopen for in-person instruction in August. Parents will have choices regarding learning options to meet their child’s needs including five-day-a-week in-person instruction or a fully-remote learning option.

"It remains our goal to open our school doors for on-site learning for the first day of school,” said Donna Bishop, Superintendent of Schools. “For some families however, the remote learning option may be necessary for medical or other reasons. Our schools are prepared to partner with any family that would like to explore the remote learning option for their child.”

Key components of the reopening plan address the health and safety of students, teachers and staff while at school. Mitigation strategies outlined in the plan were developed in collaboration with local public health officials and health professionals.

The pandemic remains a fluid situation, said Bishop, and protocols may need to be revised. Parents will be notified.