Shrewsbury – Dr. Joe Sawyer, Superintendent of Shrewsbury Public Schools released this statement this afternoon:
Dear Shrewsbury Families & Staff,
After consultation with state and local health officials and our leadership team, and after much deliberation, I have decided that it is prudent to keep all of our schools closed at least through next Friday, March 20. While there still is no confirmed or presumed case of COVID-19 in Shrewsbury, the situation continues to change rapidly, and I feel that it is judicious to be cautious.
I know that this decision is a major interruption to our educational program that creates difficulties for our students, who rely on our schools not only for education but also for many aspects of their well-being, including social and emotional support and meals. This decision also places a significant burden on many families with regard to childcare. However, I believe it is the right thing to do at this time with regard to the health and safety of our community.
This initial communication is to provide families and staff with certainty regarding our status for next week. I will be providing many more details in future communications. At this time, please note:
1) All Shrewsbury Public Schools will continue to be closed through Friday, March 20. We will assess the situation and expect to make a determination about whether to extend the closing beyond March 20 by next Thursday.
2) All school activities and events for this period of time are postponed, canceled, or modified. Principals or organizers will communicate specifics as necessary. No outside group use of the schools will occur during this time period.
3) Many parents have asked about possibilities of remote learning opportunities. We have been working on plans in case of an extended school closure, but I am sure you can appreciate that there are many complexities involved. We will provide more information regarding this topic early next week.
Families and staff can expect additional updates with detailed information in the days ahead. Thank you for your patience as we work through this unprecedented challenge. In the meantime, please do everything you can to keep your family and yourself healthy by frequently washing your hands and practicing social distancing. Despite this major disruption, I know that we are a strong community and that we will work together to persevere.
Respectfully,
Joe Sawyer
Superintendent of Schools
