On Tuesday, Governor Gavin Newsom stated schools will likely be closed for the rest of the school year over the coronavirus (COVID-19).
If what the Governor says is true, it would impact more than 6 million California public schools, however, he stopped short of saying it would happen and has not issued any mandate.
“I can say this with certainty, don’t anticipate schools will open in a week, please don’t anticipate in a few weeks. I say that because one needs to be honest and accountable to you. I don’t want to mislead you,” said Newsom who explained families need to make plans. “I would plan and assume that many of these schools, few if any, will open before the summer break.”
Newsom said its inappropriate for kids to come back to school and be tested as long as a waive by the Federal Government is supported.
LIVE NOW: Governor @GavinNewsom provides a #COVID19 update with hospital leaders as health care systems work quickly to build out more hospital capacity. https://t.co/QbLsLQ5y2Q
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) March 17, 2020
Newsom also announced Tuesday that he has requested a waiver from the U.S. Department of Education to pause standardized testing.
The governor signed an executive order last week assuring school districts that they will receive their funding if they close due to the coronavirus and instructing them to use the money for distance learning and other resources for students and families.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Supports Statewide Guidance Document Issued by Governor Newsom
SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond voiced his support for the comprehensive guidance document issued by Governor Newsom today.
The California Department of Education (CDE) collaborated with the Governor’s office to ensure that local educational agencies (LEAs) have a detailed resource that will address many of the immediate concerns teachers, administrators, and parents are facing in the wake of coronavirus-related school closures.
“It is imperative that we exhaust all efforts to minimize the disruptive impact a school closure can have on our students and their families,” said Thurmond. “Child care, educational options, meal service, and providing support to our students with disabilities are all issues that our school communities are grappling with right now. I am pleased that the Governor provided the necessary answers and solutions that our LEAs need to move forward as they continue to support and serve students throughout the state.”
To view the guidance document and for more information about coronavirus (COVID-19), please see the CDE’s Coronavirus web page.
California Department of Education (CDE) and California Health and Human Services Agency (HHS)
March 17, 2020 Cover Letter (DOCX)
1 comment
This is a bit premature and irresponsible for the governor to make this announcement. He’s just adding to the public hysteria. He should know better.
SMH
Of course, this is what I expected of him…
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