Teachers' Unions Call For Phased-In Approach To Schools Reopening

Public school teachers across Massachusetts are asking for a phased-in approach to the reopening of schools this fall, similar to the state's multi-phased economic restart.

The plan is outlined in a Public School Reopening Proposal released Monday by the Massachusetts Teachers Association, the American Federation of Teachers of Massachusetts, and the Boston Teachers Union.

The first phase is a period of preparation for teachers and support professionals that could include setting up classrooms and learning about new health and safety protocols.

The second phase would allow teachers to set up one-on-one meetings with students and their families, either in-person or remotely, to prepare them for the new health and safety protocols and for evaluating each student's needs.

The third phase is a six-week resumption of lessons, either in-person, remotely or a hybrid model to establish the school climate and culture and set expectations and rules.

The fourth stage would be a period of assessment.

The unions are also calling for health and safety guidelines that include surveying each district for protective equipment needs, and checking and updating HVAC systems.

The unions will be negotiating their terms with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education