Coronavirus Update 3-13-20

NEW BEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO CLOSE UNTIL AT LEAST MARCH 23
Posted on 03/13/2020
NEW BEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO CLOSE UNTIL AT LEAST MARCH 23

NEW BEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO CLOSE UNTIL AT LEAST MARCH 23

 

Effective immediately, as a preventative action New Bedford Public Schools will close through at least Friday, March 20, 2020, Superintendent Thomas Anderson announced late today. “Out of an abundance of caution and to support the effort to stem the potential spread of coronavirus in our region, New Bedford Public Schools will be closed Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20, 2020.  Schools are currently scheduled to reopen on Monday, March, 23, 2020.  This action is being taken after close consultation with all other school districts in our region and across Massachusetts, the Mayor’s office and City officials.”

 

Due to rolling cancellations across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the likelihood of mass absenteeism has increased significantly since the City of New Bedford’s announcement earlier this morning. New Bedford Public Schools will ensure that students’ learning remains a priority during the city’s state of emergency.

 

While schools are closed, students and their families will receive updates and information regarding academic opportunities and services such as school-provided meals. New Bedford Public Schools will continue to keep families informed via social media and announcements.

 

All central office and school administrators as well as all 12-month personnel, including facilities and maintenance staff, will report to work as scheduled. All other staff do not need to report during this time.

NBPS encourages students to make every effort to continue their learning by reading as much as possible.  This adjusts the last day of school to Wednesday, June 24, 2020.

 

While Monday, March 23, is the designated reopening date, Superintendent Anderson advised students, staff and families to continue to closely monitor the NBPS website, district social media, and local media outlets for any updates to closure status during this rapidly evolving situation. The closings are effective Monday, March 16; SATs scheduled for this weekend will remain available for students who have signed up and plan to complete the tests.