Success Academy delays in-person learning until at least January

Citing logistical uncertainties and coronavirus restrictions, the city’s largest charter school network has delayed in-person learning until at least January, officials said Thursday.

Success Academy, which enrolls 20,000 kids across four boroughs, had tentatively planned to launch a blended instruction model sometime this month.

But network officials said shifting social distancing restrictions and the swirl of questions over building use spurred a change in strategy.

“The logistical complexities of keeping our community safe would greatly compromise the student learning experience and limit so many of the interactions kids love about school,” CEO and founder Eva Moskowitz said in a statement.

Most of Success Academy’s 47 schools share buildings with traditional public schools. While they operate independently, charter schools require Department of Education clearance to resume activity in co-located facilities

While the DOE is scheduled to return to classrooms Sept. 21, Success Academy officials opted to solidify its remote learning platforms rather than risk potential future disruptions.

“Our Remote 2.0 is ‘real school’ with a full schedule of live instruction five days a week, and we’re putting all our energy into making this experience as rich and engaging as possible,” Moskowitz said.

The network’s high schoolers began remote classes Aug. 4 while other grades started on Aug. 24.

Officials said students receive at least five hours a day of live instruction and are taught by the same teacher each day.

Mayor Bill de Blasio has backed a partial return to city schools this month, citing the superiority of in-person learning and the need to provide parents with scheduling relief.

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