SEATTLE, Wash. — State and local school officials continue to grapple with what the school year will look like following the pandemic – and whether it will be permanently altered.

Bellingham Public Schools superintendent Dr. Greg Baker has proposed a year round school year in the past but didn’t find much support.

Now he tells the Seattle Times that the pandemic could create an opportunity for a new system.

Supporters of the extended school year say it would help prevent the fade of knowledge that happens during summer break.

The state Superintendent of Public Instruction has formed a workgroup to study how to re-open schools and Baker says he’s also convened a local group.

No decisions on what the 2020-2021 school year will look like have been made.