Governor Kate Brown announces the closure of all Oregon schools K-12, starting Monday, March 16 through Tuesday, March 31.
In response with concerns over Coronavirus, Oregon schools will take the next two days to finalize plans for operating schools under these measures. Schools are planning to return Wednesday, April 1.
“I have heard from superintendents, school board members, teachers, parents, and students that it has now become impossible to functionally operate schools due to workforce issues and student absences. Schools are experiencing critical shortages in staff, and superintendents are concerned for school personnel who are at elevated risk such as those over age 60 and those with underlying medical issues,” Governor Brown said.
The Oregon Department of Education will examine details with continuing nutrition services during the closure, as well as child care programs.
“This is a trying time for our community and I am reluctant to increase the burden on families who are already struggling to adapt to and stay healthy during this crisis. However, we are left with little choice in light of school districts’ staff capacity and operational concerns,” Governor Brown said.
Oregon Education Association says, “Oregon’s elected officials must work together and ensure that Oregon’s students and educators are protected during this statewide school closure. It is critical that our students who rely on our public schools for their only reliable nutritious meal in a day continue to receive access to those meals. And it is essential the governor’s office release guidance instructing school districts to keep public school employees financially whole during the closing of schools. Oregon’s students and educators should not have to bear the burden of a public health outbreak that is far beyond their control.”
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