Metro Schools begins phased-in return to classrooms today

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's day one for hundreds of Metro Nashville Public Schools students as the district brings back in-person special education classes. These are the district's first students of the year to return for full-time, in-person learning.

In total, 773 students across the district are returning to school buildings Wednesday -- the majority of which are students with disabilities.

The district's exceptional education director said this group was having the most difficulty accessing and grasping virtual learning.

"Students that are on a modified curriculum might need additional intensive intervention than a student who doesn't have IEP so that's why we all felt strongly and we heard from families, 'you know we're struggling here,' 'can you send someone into the home?' and that was not an option. So what is an option? Let's have these students back into our buildings, make sure everybody feels safe and get them the education they need and deserve," said Debbie McAdams, with MNPS Exceptional Education.

To make in-person learning work logistically, schools are taking in students from other schools.

At Croft Middle Design School, nine students will be welcomed back today. One student is transferring for the time being from McMurray Middle School, because only one student opted-in there.

The hundreds of students returning today are mostly on track to receive special education or occupational diplomas. Thirty-five elementary, 14 middle and 11 high schools are reopening.