Advertisement Hogan, state leaders announce school closures, new steps amid coronavirus outbreak Share Shares Copy Link Copy

During Gov. Larry Hogan's news conference Thursday, the Maryland State Superintendent announced all public schools will close for two weeks starting Monday.Maryland public schools and Catholic schools will be closed March 16 until Friday, March 27.State Superintendent Karen Salmon explained why she's taking such drastic measures."It is crucial that we take immediate measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 in school communities around the state. During the time of school closures all public school buildings and school buses will be cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of the virus upon the return of students and staff return to school," said Salmon.Families are being pressed to make plans over the weekend. For those looking ahead to spring break, there will be even more changes."Additionally, I am recommending that days previously scheduled for spring break be used for makeup days of the school closure. Administrators, faculty, staff, parents and guardians should begin to immediately prepare for and put into place for the continuity during a prolonged period of school closures," said Salmon.President of the Maryland State Education Association Cheryl Bost said the following in a statement: “We appreciate the leadership of Gov. Hogan and legislators to put the health and safety of students and all Marylanders at the forefront. We encourage all Marylanders to take appropriate precautions and help the less fortunate among us during the challenging weeks ahead."Expect some school systems to send home learning packets on Friday, while others will be told how to find lessons online.On top of those concerns, plans are being made to feed children who are accustomed to receiving free breakfast, lunch and in some cases dinner.Parents and students react to sudden closure of schools. Watch video below Archbishop William Lori said in a statement: “In light of the order today by Gov. Larry Hogan that all public schools be closed for the next two weeks, I have similarly instructed that all archdiocesan schools be closed during the same time period, March 16-27, 2020 and that all school-sponsored activities be cancelled during that same timeframe. In addition, I have instructed all parishes of the Archdiocese of Baltimore to comply with the Governor’s order by limiting attendance at all Masses and parish-sponsored events, regardless of location, to no more than 250 people until further notice.”"Earlier today, the Archbishop created a task force to guide all Archdiocesan decisions related to the COVID-19 virus, to be led by Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker, and distributed detailed guidance to all parishes on liturgical safeguards, parish events and meetings, travel, and other related concerns. In addition, Archdiocesan schools have been making preparations for the offering of distance learning and out-of-school instruction."New Phase in Coronavirus crisisHogan and other state leaders announced more sweeping changes to slow the spread of coronavirus in Maryland.Hogan declared a new phase in this crisis. The state is going from containment to a mitigating approach.He outlined some extraordinary steps; they include calling up the Maryland National Guard.There will be no mass gatherings of 250 people or more. This includes religious as well.He is closing the cruise ship terminal. He is even delegating some of his official duties to Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford so he can focus on the coronavirus crisis. "For Marylanders, the actions that I have announced today will be disruptive to our everyday lives. and they may sound extreme and they may sound frightening. But they could be the difference in saving lives and helping keep people safe. They do not mean however that daily life as we know it should come to a halt," said Hogan State House leaders are meeting at this hour discussing next steps. Earlier Thursday, they canceled receptions, rallies and organized state house tours. Bills will be heard by sponsor only. The public can still submit testimony electronically.​