Friend,

“We can’t deny the facts on the ground and we don’t want to kid ourselves about our kids’ health and safety.”

Today, Governor Holcomb announced that all K-12 schools will provide remote learning for the remainder of the school year.

This decision wasn’t made lightly, but it is necessary to ensure the health of our students, teachers and staff.

Here’s what this means for our schools and students:

• Schools that reached 160 instruction days will be considered to have completed a full academic year.
• Schools short of 160 instruction days are required to provide at least 20 additional days of remote learning between now and the end of the academic year.
  • If a school completes 20 days of e-learning and still fall shorts of the required 160 instructional days, IDOE can waive the difference.
• Seniors enrolled in graduation-track courses will receive credit towards graduation for those courses, and they’ll be given the flexibility needed to earn their Indiana high school diploma.
• Freshman, sophomores and juniors will need to complete their credit requirements, and it will be local schools’ decision on whether that credit has been earned.
• Local districts have until April 17 to submit continuous learning plans to the Indiana Department of Education.
• School buildings are to remain closed unless being used for other needs outlined by the state.
• Expiring teacher licenses will be extended through September 1, 2020.

 

“Even though our teachers and students have been apart, they’re still together and I’ve been inspired by the many creative ways instruction is continuing.” –Governor Holcomb

 

Governor Holcomb reminded Hoosiers that COVID-19 doesn’t distinguish between groups of people. Every single one of us is a potential vessel that could spread this virus.

These short-term efforts are unquestionably challenging and could lead to hardship. However, the long-term benefit of staying home, practicing social distancing, and minimizing contact with each other allows us to sail these uncharted waters much quicker and safer than if we do nothing.

As Governor Holcomb said, “We must make sure that we’re keeping the unity in our community,” and remember that we’re all #INThisTogether.

 

-Your Holcomb Crew