'People are going to die coming in here': Protests continue against DCPS' return plan
WASHINGTON (ABC7) — With less than two weeks to go, plans are being finalized for elementary schools that will reopen for students in D.C.
“One of the things we are adding to DCPS’ arsenal here of safety procedures is some additional medical staff,” said Director of Department of Public Works Chris Geldart.
Families who were selected for in-person learning were notified this week, ahead of term two which starts on November 9th.
RELATED: Teachers' union rallies to greet DCPS chancellor ahead of town hall on reopening schools
While Chancellor Lewis Ferebee and other DCPS staff addressed parents online, teachers and other faculty protested outside Boone Elementary School.
“This meeting at Boone tonight should’ve been open to the public. Why are we having virtual meetings about reopening in-person?” said teacher Tiffany L. Brown.
RELATED: DC librarian faces difficult decision, turns down request to supervise students in-person
“I have been inside this school since March the 16th ....not once has DCPS asked me to get tested,” said Director of Strategy and Logistics, at Boone, Marlon Ray.
He got emotional, as he voiced his concerns.
He says he isn’t ready for students to return to the building.
“People are going to die coming in here,” he said. “I’ve been here for 14 years....not on my watch.”
Chancellor Lewis Ferebee implied that DCPS may not have enough seats for all students, in need of placement, for in-person learning in term two.
Priority students have been identified as at-risk students, special education students and English language learners.
“If we were to take the sum of those student population, it exceeds the number of seats we’re able to offer at this time, based on our structures and planning and the need to cohort students,” Ferebee said.
The next town hall is on November 4th.
