Groups of Camas families are planning a trio of technology blackouts, rallies and protests over the next few weeks to pressure Camas School District officials to end full remote learning and get students back to the classroom.
The group “Open Camas Schools” plans its first of three rallies at 2 p.m. Tuesday outside of the Camas School District Building, 841 N.E. 22nd Ave., Camas.
The groups says they believe their children’s academic progress and mental health is suffering in remote learning.
In a statement sent to The Columbian, the group said it aims to “show the district that we are serious about pulling our children out of the Camas School District” if students aren’t in at least a hybrid platform by January.
Additionally, the group is calling for students to take part in a technology blackout Tuesday by not logging into their classes remotely, doing homework or engaging in class work during the planned technology blackout.
District officials could not be reached for comment on the group’s plans on Monday afternoon.
Other planned blackouts and protests are scheduled for Dec. 9 and Dec. 10. A change.org online petition created last week has 126 signatures as of Monday afternoon.
“This is our chance to come together, speak for our children and let our district know our kids and teachers are essential,” the statement said. “We have too many kids failing, falling behind, having self-esteem issues, increased levels of anxiety and depression and needing more than they are getting. … Our current school plan should not be a one-size-fits-all solution; it is apparent that it is not working.
“Our goal is to work together to find a solution to take care of the kids and teachers that need to be back at school safely while looking out for the ones who need to keep teaching and learning from a distance.”
The school district welcomed back kindergartners Nov. 9 in a hybrid format that aligns with state guidance for reopening schools.
