Distance learning continues through third quarter at Wasco High

Sports practices have begun in the Wasco Union High School District although the district will be continuing distance learning throughout the third quarter and likely through the rest of the year, Superintendent Rob Cobb said.

“However, some students are returning to ‘in-person’ instructional support for distance learning beginning this week,” Cobb said.

Cobb is currently working on a document that will be posted online on the district’s website explaining how activities will be reintroduced.

The athletic programs at Wasco High School are managed by the California Interscholastic Federation Proposed Plan for the Return of Educational-Based Athletics.

Students, parents and coaches are anxious for their students to be able to return to in-person learning, sports and other co-curricular activities that are important to physical and mental wellbeing, Cobb said.

"All Season 1 sports resumed practice last week," Cobb said Wednesday. "Season 2 sports are scheduled to begin conditioning next week."

Because covid-19 transmission rates have been quickly rising in the state, communities must continue to take action to limit the spread.

The CIF asks everyone to continue wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and limiting the mixing between households.

This is the way to ensure the best chance for CIF competition to commence, as allowed by the guidance from the California Department of Public Health.

The CIF has provided several links that explain how the districts can proceed with these practices. Athletes can continue to learn skill building and training outdoors with 6-feet of physical distancing as well as establishing team cohorts.

Some activities may be conducted indoors consistent with the Gym & Fitness Center Guidance Capacity.

Competitions, meets, races, or similar events are authorized only if

--Both teams are located in the same county and the sport is authorized, or

--Teams are located in immediately bordering counties and the sport is authorized in both counties. Out-of-state competition is not allowed at this time. The county-based authorizations outlined in the document apply to the locations/counties in which the teams, schools, and leagues are functionally based. (Where the players reside and where facilities are located, etc.).

--Any tournaments or events that involve more than two teams are not currently permitted. Exceptions may be made, with authorization from the local health department, for the following sports where individual competitors from multiple teams are routine: track and field; cross-country; golf; skiing and snowboarding; tennis; and swimming/diving. Schools must still follow all guidelines from their local county and the governing board of each district.