BOSTON – In a conference call with superintendents of schools across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Jeffrey C. Riley said he did not anticipate public schools would re-open on April 7.
Gov. Charlie Baker ordered all schools closed through April 6.
The suspension of educational programming will not necessarily affect the availability of school buildings for the provision of food or other essential non-educational services, said the Massachusetts Department of Education.
Framingham is distributing a lunch and a breakfast to all students in the City of Framingham, not just those in the Framingham Public Schools, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at four schools. The meals are free, but students MUST be present.
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During this period, it is critical that students and their families, as well as school staff, stay home as much as possible, said the Massachusetts Department of Education.
“Although schools must suspend in-person educational operations, staff should be planning for how best to equitably provide alternative access to student learning opportunities during this period and potentially beyond,” said the Mass Department of Education.
Framingham will distribute Chromebooks to families in need on Saturday, March 21.
“Equally important, school personnel should develop plans for ensuring to the greatest extent possible that families have access to essential non-academic services for their children — especially involving special education and food services for students who are most vulnerable,” said the state.
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“The Department will work in partnership with schools and districts to develop strategies and resources to sustain learning and vital services throughout this closure period,” said the State.
“Already, DESE has received a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture providing greater flexibility regarding food service in certain districts with higher concentrations of low-income students and is actively pursuing additional waivers for the remaining schools and districts,” said the State.
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