Glendale Unified School District extends campus shutdowns to the end of the academic year
As teachers begin distance learning this week, Glendale Unified School District announced Wednesday evening that schools will remain closed through the end of the academic year.
According to an email sent to parents, the district is considering options for graduation ceremonies and end-of-year celebrations.
“We recognize the importance of these momentous life events, especially for our seniors, and we will work closely with our students, staff and families to make these experiences as meaningful as possible for our amazing students,” Glendale Supt. Vivian Ekchian said in the email.
The grab-and-go meal service that was set up recently will continue on weekdays until schools reopen.
Other issues that school districts might need to address in the near future are grading and summer-school offerings.
Staff who perform essential functions such as meal service, childcare and ensuring business continuity are allowed on campuses and exempt from Safer at Home public-health orders.
The shutdown extension came an hour after Los Angeles County Supt. of Schools Debra Duardo announced her recommendation to close all campuses through the academic year.
Duardo said she consulted with the county’s 80 superintendents and state representatives. However, each district has the power to decide whether to remain closed, she added.
Gov. Gavin Newsom and state Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond echoed the same recommendation this week.
“Our public health leaders have made it clear that the peak of this pandemic is yet to come. As social-distancing practices remain vital, the safety of students and staff must continue to be our top priority,” Duardo said.
“Deciding now to keep campuses closed for the remainder of the school year allows our education community to focus on accelerating learning in a remote environment and finding new ways to engage and connect with students,” she added.
