Dear NHSBA Members -
We send this email with as a general update relative to recent COVID-19 matters as it impacts schools.
Governor Sununu's New Directives
Earlier this afternoon, Governor Sununu issued additional emergency order recommending Granite Staters to stay home and ordering nonessential businesses to close in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. This "stay-at-home" order takes effect Friday March 27, 2020 at 11:59pm.
Under this order, "businesses that will remain open" include school lunch program deliveries. This order will be in effect until May 4th.
State Assessments and Closing of School Buildings
Earlier this week, NHSBA co-signed two letters sent to Governor Sununu asking him to direct the NHDOE to: (1) sign a waiver eliminating the need for a statewide assessment for this school year as currently required under federal law/ESSA; and (2) issue an order closing all school buildings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The two letters can be viewed here:
Recommendations Moving Forward
NHSBA has been in constant communications with the NHDOE, legislators, school board members, and other stakeholders as we seek to develop generally accepted recommendations. We anticipate additional guidance being distributed on Friday March 27th.
As always, thank you for your local efforts in dealing with this emergency within your communities.
