Six Bay Area counties announced extending school closures today. They are now tentatively scheduled to remain closed through May 1.
The following is a press release from the San Francisco Unified School District:
“The safety and wellness of our students, school personnel, and the community are our highest priority right now,” said SFUSD Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews. “In consultation with public health officials across 6 counties in the Bay Area, we have decided to extend school closures for the health of the Bay Area. Families need to continue to shelter in place across the region in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19 to the greatest extent possible.”
During this time, all are urged to keep practicing the guidance provided by Public Health Officers including:
- Staying home to save lives
- Washing hands often with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Contacting your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing
The District has been preparing for extended school closures. As part of this effort, SFUSD is implementing a phased-in continuity of learning plan districtwide. This week SFUSD shared optional learning resources that students and their caregivers can engage in at home and began lending computers to students who do not have one. Teachers are preparing both non-digital and digital learning options and plans are in place to begin a more comprehensive approach to distance learning by April 13.
SFUSD is continuing to provide free meals to students and families, offering a variety of meal options.
“We understand public schools are an essential part of our greater community and we need to work together during this time to take care of each other,” said SF Board of Education President Mark Sanchez. “This is a time to make short term sacrifices and set the right example for our young people.”
Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo and Santa Clara County schools, along with the San Francisco Unified School District, agreed to extend closures. With the support and collaboration of the Public Health Officers in the respective counties, the County Superintendents of Schools recognized the need to extend the period of school closures through May 1, 2020.
Building on the regional coordination that six Bay Area jurisdictions took on March 16, 2020 in issuing the Health Officer order for all residents to shelter in place, Bay Area counties have been working together to align strategies and practices during this unprecedented time for public education.
