OCPS medical advisory committee asks state to allow virtual learning to continue through end of school year

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Members of Orange County Public Schools' medical advisory committee sent a letter to the Florida education commissioner on Thursday asking for virtual learning to be allowed to continue through the remainder of the school year.

In the letter, the members wrote that allowing parents and schools the opportunity to choose a virtual learning option allows the school districts to provide the safest possible environment for students.

READ: Three grade levels at Blankner School pivoting to virtual learning due to COVID-19

“We believe that having a virtual school platform for the entire 2020-2021 academic year is a medical necessity for many of our students, especially those who have underlying medical conditions that would place them at high-risk for significant morbidity and mortality from COVID-19,” the members wrote in the letter.

They said the virtual option is also an educational necessity so that when students or staff are required to quarantine due to COVID-19, they are able to continue to access their curriculum online.

READ: Hundreds of substitute teacher jobs open for Orange County Public Schools

“Without a virtual platform, students' ability to access their curriculum and make effective progress would be significantly impacted,” they said.

Video: Hundreds of substitute teacher jobs open for Orange County Public Schools The company that provides substitute teachers for Orange County Public Schools reported it is becoming more difficult to find fill-ins. (WFTV)