New resolution gives Duluth Public Schools Superintendent power to make immediate decisions on health and safety

In light of an increase in COVID-19 cases driven by the Delta variant, the Duluth School Board voted 7-0 in favor of a resolution Tuesday that will give Superintendent John Magas the power to make decisions regarding the health and safety of students and staff without formal board approval.

Through the resolution, Superintendent Magas can implement new protocol based on the changing situation much faster than waiting for school board meetings.

"I wish that it weren’t necessary to be quite honest. I think that all of us had hopes that we’d have a normal or better than normal school year. It does appear that we’re likely to have mask wearing for our students, but I also think its promising that we’re very planning to have five full days of in-person instruction for all of our students," Magas said.

Magas will be required to provide regular updates on what is being implemented and why, based on recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health.

The resolution will remain in effect until the board decides otherwise.

The board will meet again on August 24th. At that time, they hope to finalize plans their for the upcoming school year.