Durango’s schools will be closed until at least March 25, but that could be extended as the crisis over the coronavirus outbreak unfolds.
Durango School District 9-R is out on spring break this week and announced previously it would cancel classes next week because of concern about spreading the coronavirus.
“We recognize that school closing is a major decision and challenges many of our families with a lack of child care or supervision while parents are engaged in their careers and work,” Superintendent Dan Snowberger wrote in an email to parents Monday.
“We don’t take this decision lightly, but will always take the best interest of our community to heart as we evaluate the situation,” he said.
The school district will evaluate conditions on a week-by-week basis, Snowberger said, and the decision whether to extend the closure will be announced Wednesday.
Even if schools reopen, Snowberger said parents should make the ultimate decision whether to send their children back to classes. Teachers will be prepared to assist students working remotely, he said.
If classes are canceled beyond March 25, the school district will start to provide access to breakfast and lunch, distributed at a central location. More information about that service is expected in coming days.
“Our children sense the unusual nature of the times,” Snowberger wrote. “I encourage you take advantage of the opportunity to engage with your kids in activities and family time. Read a book, go for a walk, play outside in your yard, engage in game time as a family, and avoid large gatherings and public spaces, like playgrounds. It is essential that children be reassured that this too shall pass.”
jromeo@durangoherald.com
