Mid-Prairie school administrators are working on plans to offer distance learning opportunities for students while district buildings are closed.

Superintendent Mark Schneider told the school board Monday night that administrators and staff have been meeting via videoconferences to put together plans.

“The guidance changes, sometimes by the hour,” Schneider said. “We’re easing into the learning plan for students.”

Schneider hopes to have a more solid plan in place later this week.

“The goal is to put in front of parents Wednesday or Thursday a menu of things to choose from,” he said.

He explained that, for now, the online programs would be optional because of “equity purposes.”

More planning will have to go into developing distance learning plans for special needs students and those with individual educational plans.

He said that because the situation is changing regularly, plans are subject to change as well.

“We are building the plane as we fly it,” Schneider said.

As of now, schools are closed through April 12. April 13 is a scheduled in-service day for staff, and students are slated to return to school April 14.

“Hopefully, April 14, we’ll be back in school,” Schneider said.

He also stressed that, while the buildings may be closed, the district is still operating.

“I am very adamant that our district is not closed,” he said. “Our buildings are closed and the grounds are closed, but our district is still functioning.”