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For LEAs considering this option, they decided that schools are closed, and therefore no official student work is expected; similar to if there was an inclement weather closure.
In this option schools are closed, no students are receiving instruction and therefore, there are no equity concerns for students with disabilities, English Learners, or any other unique student group.
LEAs should consider the length of time the schools are closed and, based on that time frame, the educational needs of the students. As always, the highest priority should be attempting to provide some type of Continuity of Education for students. Be aware that In the event schools are closed for an extended period of time and no Planned Instruction or Enrichment and Review is offered, the potential need for compensatory education for students eligible under IDEA may significantly increase.
Schools are not mandated to provide instruction during this statewide closure, but schools are strongly encouraged to plan possible adjustments to their calendars (e.g., use of snow days, Act 80 days, extension of school year, etc.) to provide as much instruction as possible during this unprecedented event.
For LEAs considering no instruction, what implications does that have?
It is unclear what, if any, ramifications might occur at the state level should a district decide to refrain from offering any instruction. At a local level, potential ramifications of an extended period of no instruction may include:
Community concerns (childcare, employment, related services)
“Optics”
Political concerns (comparisons to neighboring districts)
State-level concern (is a school really unable to offer any instruction?)
Graduation (how does this impact current seniors?)
State assessment prep (while state assessments are canceled, students might still be provided instruction aligned to standards)
Special education law concerns
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