TOWSON, Md. — Like students, the Teachers Association of Baltimore County (TABCO) wants their members to choose whether they continue teaching virtually or in-person.
Although Baltimore County is one of the only remaining local school districts to not have a preliminary return date for partial in-person instruction, the March 1 deadline set by Governor Larry Hogan and State Superintended Karen Salmon is quickly approaching.
Last week the two all but demanded schools submit plans and a date to reopen, or else face possible legal action.
The goal is to at least give parents a choice to send their kids to school part of the week in sort of a hybrid model , as opposed to keeping them home everyday.
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Originally the county's Superintendent Darryl Williams, had aimed to have small groups of students return for in-person instruction by October 19.
But TABCO threatened a lawsuit, and Williams backed off.
On Monday a coalition of parents sued the school system, in an attempt to get a court order, forcing them to reopen.
Now as pressure mounts, the Teachers Association is still holding out until each of their members is vaccinated.
"Educators must have the opportunity to be fully vaccinated before returning. Educators must have the option to return to classrooms/worksites or to remain instructing virtually as long as BCPS families have that choice," said Glen S. Galante, TABCO Executive Director.
Last week, Hogan cited research that shows continued closures affecting student social interaction causing some to fall behind in school, resulting in depression and anxiety.
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Hogan referenced other states who've cut pay and revoked licenses of teachers refusing to return to work, and said he hopes to avoid any similar action in Maryland.
