SALT LAKE CITY — The State of Utah announced Monday that the dismissal of public K-12 schools will extend until at least May 1.

The announcement also stated that Utah’s technical colleges will suspend teaching from March 30 until May 1.

State education, health and government officials will continue to monitor the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and will make a determinition regarding the rest of the school year.

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“We recognize that being away from school creates additional work and stress for everyone in our communities; however, it is a necessary step in stopping the spread of COVID-19,” said State Superintendent Sydnee Dickson. “During the uncertainties of the coming weeks, it is more important than ever to remain socially connected with our students and families while doing our best to ensure learning continues. The flexibility and initiative of our educators is a shining example of how we rise together in challenging circumstances.”

Technical colleges will be closing temporarily and will not transition into online learning, based on these schools' unique coursework, schedules and hands-on instruction. Students currently enrolled will retain their progress toward completion during the break, the announcement read, and college presidents may make exceptions to deliver coursework online or to individuals or small groups of students who are nearing completion.