Ohio Gov. DeWine: Schools closed through at least May 1 due to coronavirus

COLUMBUS (WCMH) — Schools K-12 will remain closed until at least May 1 due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Monday.

During a briefing, DeWine said the Ohio Department of Health would be issuing an extension to the initial order shutting down in-person education for the schools.

DeWine said the May 1 date will be reevaluated as the time gets closer.

A statement released by Columbus City Schools said families of students will receive information this week about the district’s distance learning program, which will start Monday, April 6.

The district will be closed as originally scheduled for Spring Break, April 10-17.

The information the district will be providing to families this week includes:

• How to access your student’s online distance learning platforms through Clever. These platforms will vary by grade level and subject.
• How to connect with your student’s teacher, principal, and school support staff. This can include email, phone, and Webex video chats.
• How to access your student’s new email address. Our IT team will be activating email addresses, to be used for communication within the District only, for all students on April 6.
• Where to find Wi-Fi access across the city if you don’t have reliable access at home. Many of our school buildings have signal strengths that reach into the parking lot, while a number of community partners have stepped up to offer Wi-Fi services or access.

The initial order was issued March 12 and closed schools for three weeks, which would have expired this Friday, April 3.

Coronavirus in Ohio resources:

• Coronavirus in Ohio Monday update: 1,933 cases, 39 deaths
• NEW: Ohio K-12 school closures extended through May 1
• Latest news, live updates on coronavirus in Ohio
• Should I get tested for COVID-19?
• In This Together: Heartwarming news
• Give or get help in Ohio
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