Page 10 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 Cost of hybrid learning projected at $5M By Christopher Roberson S uperintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani recently announced that the implementation of the hybrid learning model is expected to cost the district $5.1 million. Within that figure, some of the larger expenses include $1.6 million to transport special education and homeless students, $1.3 million for 40 long-term substitute teachers and $420,000 for 1,100 pool testing kits. In addition, $161,930 will be used to purchase 7,000 pieces of personal protective equipment. Tahiliani spoke about the financial impact of hybrid learning. “We don’t believe that we are going to have this grand surplus of funds,” she said during the January 4 School Committee meeting, adding that the hybrid model is expected to begin at the end of February. Therefore, she said, the district will absolutely need the city to return the $471,140 CARES Act reimbursement as well as the $581,000 from the lease of the Devens School. Despite the expense of hybrid learning, Tahiliani said it is time for students to return to the classroom – even if it is on a parttime basis. “We need to make moves to get back,” she said. Ward 4 School Committee Member Dana Murray, a teacher at East Boston High School, said she made the choice to return to her classroom. “Despite the fact that I probably could’ve gotten medical leave to stay out, I chose not to,” she said. “It’s getting to the point where enough is enough; we can’t wait forever. We should move forward without fear of moving backward.” School Committee leadership In other news, the committee voted unanimously to appoint Frank Parker as chairman and Thomas Abruzzese as vice chairman for 2021. “It’s an honor and a privilege,” said Parker, who previously served as vice chairman. Parker also thanked his wife, Kathleen, who he said, “serves in this capacity probably as much as I do.” However, Parker said that in recent weeks, the district has been characterized as “just another department.” “We are not, we are far from just another department,” said Parker. Parker also reminded his colleagues that they are harnessed with the awesome responsibility of overseeing 10 buildings, 7,200 students and 900 employees. Ward 5 School Committee Member Marcony Almeida-Barros said Abruzzese, the outgoing COST | SEE PAGE 15
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