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Hudson schools struggling with internet interruptions
Nov 17, 2020 3:15 pm
Jeanette Wolfberg is reporting for The Columbia Paper on two recent meetings of the Hudson school board. Superintendent Maria L. Suttmeier told the board that internet service interruptions continue to be an issue. She said they have become more sporadic and often occur at the same time of the day. Some of the problems are weather-related, some equipment related, Suttmeier said in October. She said the district had switched its provider from Mid-Hudson Cable to FirstLight. In November, she added, “we’re working with other districts that are experiencing [similar] disruptions.” During the October 20 meeting, the superintendent reported instruction for all 11th and 12th graders happens online. Most 6th through 10th graders are on a hybrid schedule — two days a week in person, other days online. Most pre-kindergarteners through 5th graders attend in-person, four days a week. At the same time, many parents have opted for their children, in grades K through 10, to attend remotely. Asked by a parent if there was any way to return all students to in-person instruction, Suttmeier said it is not possible right now. She said, "[W]e don’t have the space. If there was a way to bring in students, we’d do it. I know you aren’t the only one who’s frustrated. We considered using the gym as a classroom, but we need the space to hold students when they come into school before class begins.” Suttmeier said they are looking at the possibility of bringing in the 11th and 12th graders, however. A survey has been sent to parents to gauge their interest in in-person classes and to determine if they would need transportation. Read the full story in The Columbia Paper.