More Than 165,000 MCPS Students Affected By Statewide Closures

ROCKVILLE, MD — Maryland schools will remain closed for the rest of the academic year, State Superintendent of Schools Karen Salmon announced Wednesday.

Schools have been closed since March 16 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"After extensive discussions with the Maryland State Board of Education, the Maryland Health Department and additional health experts advising the governor," Salmon said, "I am convinced this is the appropriate decision in order to continue to protect the health and safety of our students, educators, staff, and all members of school communities throughout Maryland."

The closures will affect more than 165,000 Montgomery County public school students.

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In a message to the MCPS community, superintendent Jack Smith sided with Salmon, saying it was "the right decision for the safety and well-being of Maryland students and their families."

"While this news is not unexpected, it doesn't diminish the sadness and disappointment that many of us are feeling because we won't be together in schools to learn and work together; participate in athletic and arts events; and attend end-of-the-year celebrations and graduations," he added.

MCPS moved classes online in late March, in an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19. The last day of classes is scheduled for June 15.

"This weekend, we will provide an update to the community that will address many of the questions and concerns you have on various topics, including the next phase of online learning, graduation, proms, promotion ceremonies, and more. We encourage you to visit our coronavirus webpage frequently and sign up to receive important alerts through the Alert Montgomery system," Smith said.

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