Hobart teachers will receive a one-time $1,000 stipend in recognition of their work during the challenges of teaching during the coronavirus pandemic in the past school year. According to a resolution approved by the school board last week, teachers will receive their stipends by the end of June.

The stipend agreement was bargained by Superintendent Peggy Buffington and Janice Hamady, chief negotiator for the Hobart Teachers Association.

Many districts across the state are providing similar teacher stipends. Buffington said the stipend money would come from the district’s education fund. Hobart has 218 teachers, according to state data from 2019-20. The resolution pointed out the “dedication for planning and preparation and work performed on behalf of students,” during the past school year.

The school board also approved its Brickie Forward Plan for the coming school year that does allow students a remote learning option, if they choose it. In-school learning was the most popular option.

The plan also called for the continuation of the wearing of face coverings, per a state executive order.

Buffington said the district would follow recommendations from the State Board of Health on face masks. More guidelines are expected in the coming weeks.

Buffington said about 150 students in the district of about 4,000, have chosen the remote learning option.

The school board approved a contract with Pearson Virtual Schools USA Virtual Learning Programs for the online classes. They won’t be taught by Hobart teachers, however, because not enough students signed up. Certified teachers will provide the online instruction.

Under the Brickie Forward Plan, students and staff members must continue to communicate with school officials if they are experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms or if they have tested positive. Parental consent is required for nurses to test students to confirm symptoms.

Perfect attendance awards won’t be issued next year to encourage sick students to stay home. The district will provide targeted instruction to students who have fallen behind and students at risk of not graduating on time will receive a program to boost their achievement.

All schools will offer after-school academic programs with bus service provided.

Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.