After a 4-day emergency closure of all ISD 31 Schools, school district officials have made the determination that all schools will return to in-person learning and will be open for all classes and activities beginning Monday, January 24, 2022. The decision to temporarily close schools was based upon our inability to adequately staff schools and facilities during a period of high COVID infection and other non-COVID related illnesses.
During the emergency closure, school district leaders have met often to develop plans that will allow district schools and facilities to remain open. However, the district is still poised, if necessary, to shift into Distance Learning immediately and without loss of learning days should another emergency arise. The school closure also provided the time necessary for many employees to recover from illnesses and complete COVID related isolation or quarantine.
Like many other school districts and non-school employers, Bemidji Area Schools has been struggling with workforce and substitute staffing shortages. Staff absences and substitute shortages have made it difficult to maintain operations. We are pleading with our community for help in meeting our staffing and substitute needs. Current job openings are posted on the District website.
We are also in desperate need of teacher, paraprofessional, health paraprofessional, food service, custodial and bus driver substitutes. If you have any availability and interest in supporting our students and working as a substitute, please contact the school district’s substitute services website at www.teachersoncall.com for information about the many substitute opportunities and how to apply.
The district is grateful for the dedication of all ISD 31 employees and their commitment to the district, students, and families during this challenging time. We understand the importance of having our students in school and are looking forward to seeing them on Monday.