HCPS posts draft plan for virtual snow days; hotspots estimated at about $200,000
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Summary
Harford County Public Schools presented a draft inclement‑weather plan proposing synchronous virtual instruction after three traditional closures, four hours of live instruction, and attendance tracking; staff estimates hotspot costs about $200,000 and the plan will be posted for 30 days for public review.
Harford County Public Schools presented a draft plan on Aug. 18 to permit synchronous virtual instruction on inclement‑weather days after the district uses three traditional closure days. The draft requires schools to provide four hours of live instruction, pre‑announce decisions to allow students to take home technology, and record attendance. The plan would be subject to a 30‑day public review and a formal board vote in September.
Chief of Staff Katie Ridgeway said the district surveyed staff and families; that earlier surveys showed majority support for virtual options but also identified barriers including internet access, staff familiarity with synchronous teaching and the need for day‑of tech support. Ridgeway said reliable home internet access remains a challenge and the administration estimates hotspot support at roughly $200,000 to cover students without home access.
The plan includes logistical measures—Canvas links for classes, practice days and two‑hour delay logistics—and allows boards and administrators to tailor details for grade bands where supervision is a concern. Staff emphasized the budget implications and offered to meet with trustees to walk through technical, operational and special‑education implications before a September vote.
The board did not adopt the plan at this meeting; the draft is posted for comment and will return for a vote after the 30‑day public period.
