With the federal government issuing new social distancing guidelines earlier this week, Florida announced that public and private K-12 school campuses will remain closed throughout April.
After President Donald Trump and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) extended social distancing guidelines through April 30, Florida Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran called for campuses to remain close through May 1.
“While we work together to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, one constant remains—students can and will continue to receive a great education in Florida. It is essential that students do not fall behind and are still receiving instruction, even when they are not in the classroom,” said Corcoran.
“Florida has superb superintendents and educators whose commitment to implementing distance learning for all of Florida’s students is unmatched. It is crucial that we keep students safe and healthy, and I will continue working with each and every district to ensure that they have all the resources necessary as we respond to COVID-19,” Corcoran added.
The Florida Department of Education will offer additional guidance in the coming days.
Two weeks ago, Corcoran extended spring breaks and called for schools to close their campuses through at least April 15.
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
