Sarah Mueller
K-12 students will likely stay out for at least another month because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, thanks to new guidance put out by the Department of Education.
Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran says his new recommendation, which is not public yet, is based on the Sunday’s announcement by President Donald Trump that social distancing instructions issued by the federal government will continue through the month of April. Each individual school district makes the ultimate decision.
Corcoran says DOE will be sending out a press release with more information on the guidance Monday night.
As of Monday evening, Florida has 5,704 positive COVID-19 cases, with 5,489 of those Florida residents. There’s 715 people hospitalized and the death toll stands at 71.
Students are transitioning to distance learning and online classes after extended spring breaks earlier this month. Some families may be having an easier time transitioning than others. Some students lack broadband internet access at home. Other students who have special needs may need additional accommodations.
Florida Virtual School says it will provide free digital courses to all schools through the end of the year to help them deal with disruptions due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. These courses are available to K-12 students and will be hosted through software applications like Blackboard or Canvas.
