Update, as of April 4:
PA K-12 schools have been closed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
During this time, according to an Emmaus High School newsletter, the East Penn School District administration has made available resources for students including free grab-and-go meals available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with each pick-up containing meals for following days. Structured online learning will begin April 6, though students will not receive grades for work during the emergency closure. Teachers will be making assignments available on Monday of each week, student completion of which will be tracked. Students will get feedback from their teachers via Google Classroom. For EHS students, all Classroom codes can be acquired by contacting grade-level administrative assistants or assistant principals. Teachers will be holding office hours on Google Meet each week for students to log in for questions and clarification on assignments.
The class of 2020 will be receiving information on April 6 regarding plans for senior events.
A statement about FERPA as it pertains to virtual learning, made available by the district, can be viewed here.
Update, as of March 23:
Gov. Tom Wolf announced today that the state-wide closure of K-12 schools– meant to slow the spread of COVID-19– has been extended for two more weeks, until April 6.
According to the state, another extension could be instated past April 6 if need be. Once the state determines conditions are safe to go back to school, all schools will have two days to prepare for returning, and resume classes on the third day.
Gov. Tom Wolf announced this afternoon state-wide K-12 school closings for the next two weeks, effective Monday.
In his statement, according to a press release on the governor website, Wolf noted that any schools that fail to meet the 180 day or education hours requirements will not be penalized.
“My top priority as governor – and that of our education leaders – must be to ensure the health and safety of our students and school communities,” Wolf said.
At 3:32 p.m. President Donald Trump said in a press conference, “I am officially declaring a national emergency. Two very big words.”
In a newsletter sent at 3:43 p.m., the East Penn School District administration references Wolf’s statement and promises more EPSD-specific information to come.
Check back for updates as the story develops.