Wake County schools discuss increasing remote learning, changing policy

CARY, N.C. (WTVD) -- An increase in remote learning could be possible at Wake County Public School System.

During inclement weather, like we saw last week during the winter storm, the district canceled classes unlike neighboring districts, which did remote learning. A COVID-era policy prevented the superintendent from using remote learning.

On Tuesday, the district's policy committee met to discuss potentially changing the remote instruction policy.

"We gave the thumbs up for the superintendent and staff to be able to use remote learning days rather than makeup days on Saturdays or taking away a teacher workday," said Lynn Edmonds, WCPSS Policy Committee Chair.

A board of education committee gave the green light on Tuesday afternoon that starting next academic year, the superintendent can call for online instruction in case of inclement weather.

Next month, some students will have to come in on a Saturday to make up missed time in the classroom.

One school board member said the weekend day isn't fair to students or educators.

"Six-day workdays is a lot for anybody," said Board member Toshiba Rice. "And what our teachers have to do to put support around our students, who know that they are supposed to be at home on a Saturday, is just overbearing for anyone."