More than two dozen community partners will provide safe space for CMSD students to learn online if their parents' jobs or other complications prevent them from doing schoolwork at home.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CMSD has begun the year with at least nine weeks of remote learning. To help families who need supervison for children, 29 organizations are offering programs at 47 sites throughout the city. Combined, the sites have room for 1,227 students. 

"We are very grateful to the many partners who are helping to carry out this critical component of our reopening plan," District CEO Eric Gordon said. "We must support families in a variety of ways as they adjust to remote learning. A broad community effort like this is needed if our plans and, ultimately, our students are to be successful."

Of the 29 organizations, 24 have been selected to operate “academic learning pods” for K-8 students after responding to a request for proposals. The Cleveland Foundation and partners have raised more than $720,000 for the initiative, but additional support is needed.

The pods will provide support for more than 800 students, including those who are homeless, lack internet service or have parents who must work. Corporations or individuals who wish to support the project can donate at https://brurl.co/SupportALPs.

Parents or caregivers who need the service should call their schools.