Schools in Monterey County Anticipated to Reopen no earlier than May 4

The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE), most of the school districts, and charter schools, in concurrence with the Monterey County Health Department, announced on Thursday, March 26 that they do not anticipate schools returning earlier than Monday, May 4, 2020. If the State and Monterey County Health Officer Stay at Home/Shelter in Place Orders are lifted sooner than May 4, 2020 and schools are deemed safe and ready for students to return, communities will be notified by their school at least one week prior to the reopening date. A letter signed by the county superintendent and school leaders is attached.
With more and more confirmed cases in our County, our state and our nation, now more than ever, it is important communities in Monterey County heed the Stay at Home/Shelter in Place Orders to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
School leaders recognize that potentially schools may need to stay closed for the remainder of the academic year and will provide regular updates as the situation evolves. Extending a school closure is a local decision that is not taken lightly and is made by each individual district.
“While we recognize this extension of school facility closures poses challenges and hardship to many families in Monterey County, the health and safety of our students, families, and communities must be our priority. Research shows the most effective way to slow and disrupt the transmission of this pandemic is by continuing to implement social distancing practices and we need everyone’s help in supporting the stay at home/shelter in place order.” said Dr. Deneen Guss, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools. “The educational community has also been working with our partner agencies to determine how to deliver services and support in new ways during this time. We are thankful for the heroic efforts of all who are working for and in unison with schools, and for the donors who are reaching out to offer their help.”
Some school facilities throughout Monterey County remain open to staff for the purposes of performing tasks deemed essential by the school district and the MCOE. Education will continue through distance learning, meals will continue to be provided and, where possible, childcare may be arranged.
“Schools play a vital role in our communities and balancing that role with the need for keeping our Monterey County residents safe and socially distanced is essential at this time when we have evidence of community transmission in Monterey County,” said Dr. Edward Moreno, Monterey County Health Officer.