Federal Way Public Schools has pushed back the in-person return date by one week to help transition staff and students into classroom learning once again.

FWPS students in pre-kindergarten through first grade who have opted for hybrid learning will begin in-person learning Monday, March 15, the district announced in an update on Feb. 26.

The March 15 return date also includes K-2 Academic Core Program, K-12 Functional Core Program and Employment Transition Program students.

Previously, early elementary school students were set to return to classrooms March 8.

The district said the week of March 8 will instead be “valuable transition time” for students and staff. The transition week involves asynchronous activities, including time for students to meet their new class and teacher, along with health and safety protocol training for staff.

Upon returning to school, masks are required to be worn at all times, including on the school bus, and students will not be provided meals while at school, the district said.

Second and third grade students, and Academic Core Program students grades 3-5, are set to resume in-person learning March 29. Grades 4-5 will return to classrooms beginning April 19.

In the newsletter, Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell noted the district is continuing to search for accessible vaccination opportunities for staff members. The district is also partnering with Seattle Children’s to provide rapid testing for staff who will be in classrooms due to in-person learning.

For more information, visit fwps.org.