Another wave of students headed back to classrooms in Bellevue

Another wave of students is headed back to classrooms in Bellevue.

The district’s oldest learners are returning to in-person learning.

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Middle and high schoolers across Bellevue are returning after sizable protests outside the Bellevue School Board meeting earlier this week.

The school district and teachers’ union have since come to an agreement, allowing students in grades 6 to 12 to return to school buildings.

Their first day back will be either Thursday or Friday. Their schedule will include two or three half-days in the classroom every week.

KIRO 7 spoke with dozens of parents and students who wanted the district to reopen to full in-person learning instead of the proposed hybrid model that includes remote classes.

“I see what’s happening on my end. And it’s not working and it’s not good and it’s not healthy,” said parent Michelle Silver.

Bellevue School District administrators said they have been working hard to make sure buildings are ready. They’ve focused on air flow and ventilation as well as stocking up on personal protective equipment.

Students and staff must complete a health check each morning, and the district says contact tracing procedures are in place if needed.