State Superintendent Closes MD Schools for Two Weeks, Beginning Monday, March 16, 2020

March 12th, 2020

UPDATED: March 13, 2020

The following update was sent to the HCPSS community by Superintendent Michael Martirano on March 12, 2020:

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Karen Salmon this afternoon announced that effective Monday, March 16, all Maryland public schools will be closed for students for two weeks. Accordingly, all HCPSS schools and office buildings will be closed Friday, March 13 at 6 p.m. through Sunday, March 29. We are reviewing the order by the state superintendent this afternoon regarding the closures and will provide additional information on what this means for staff. I will be joining my colleagues from other Maryland districts shortly, for a conference call with the Maryland State Department of Education to learn more in an effort to prepare and provide additional information to families and staff.

The health and safety of our HCPSS students, staff and community remains our top concern. We have included resources on the HCPSS website you may use as you talk to your children about COVID-19 and the related closures. As I previously shared, I encourage all families to review your emergency plans, including if you need to explore alternative care for your children and/or arrange to telework with your employer. It is important that families remain home as much as possible as social distancing is the primary reason behind the governor’s decision.

The HCPSS leadership team is working on additional information and guidance which will be shared with staff and community this evening. I also will be meeting with principals this evening to discuss next steps. In addition, we are also considering issues related to food distribution and access to instructional materials while schools are closed.

You have our continued commitment that our focus is on preparation and keeping you updated on a regular basis informing our communities of any updates or critical information.