INDIANAPOLIS — All K-12 schools in Indiana will deliver remote instruction for the remainder of the academic year.
Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick made the announcement during Gov. Eric Holcomb's press briefing Thursday afternoon. All school buildings will remain closed to students and staff for the remainder of the school year.
"All high school seniors who are on track to graduate before school buildings were closed on March 19 will be provided with the flexibility they need to earn an Indiana diploma," according to McCormick.
Schools must complete a minimum of 160 total instructional days or at least 20 more days of remote learning from April 2 to the end of the school year.
"Our goal is to get you across the stage," McCormick said.
<p></p><p>Students who are enrolled in lower-level grades will need to finish the class to receive their credits.
Additional information released by McCormick:
- Expiring teacher licenses will be extended through September 1, 2020.
- Some emergency teaching permit requirements will be waived.
- Rules for school bus passenger evacuation drills will be waived.
The Indiana State Teacher's Association issued the following statement about the governor's decision:
“Since March, educators, students and families have adopted new technologies and adapted to learning at home. Gov. Holcomb’s decision to close public schools through this school year is prudent and will keep everyone safer. ISTA will continue to support educators by offering guidance and resources. We urge educators and families to follow precautionary social distancing so we can look to a new school year with hope that school will be in session.”
Watch the full press conference below.
