South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster said on Wednesday that schools will not reopen this school year.
He made the announcement Wednesday alongside Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman.
Discussions will now get underway on how to honor graduates and how to reopen schools in August.
“We want to be sure we have graduation ceremonies for those young people and their families,” the governor said.
About two-thirds of superintendents said they didn’t think it was smart to return to school this academic year, according to a survey by the S.C. Department of Education.
Superintendent Spearman said she is organizing a task force to work on how to reopen safely amid the pandemic.
“That will remain our priority, the health and safety of our staff and students,” she said.
The Fort Mill School District released this statement to parents and staff:
“Today Governor Henry McMaster along with State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman announced that school districts will remain closed for the remainder of the school year. Our district is finalizing plans to continue our eLearning program in accordance with this order. Our current eLearning program was designed to continue until May 1. The district will provide details about the next phase of eLearning soon. If you have questions or need assistance with current assignments, please reach out to your teacher. Our staff remains committed to providing support to our families throughout this process.
“This announcement impacts large events such as graduations and we will be announcing alternative plans to recognize our graduates as soon as they are determined.
“We understand this school year has not gone as planned for our community or state. We have been impressed by the commitment to education our students, families and staff have shown during this trying time. We will continue to work with our families to provide a high quality education to all students and we hope everyone will continue to stay safe and healthy as we navigate this unprecedented situation.
The Fort Mill School District“