From James F. Lane, Ed.D., Superintendent of Public Instruction

The Governor of Virginia ordered all K-12 schools in Virginia to close through the end of this academic year on March 23, 2020. The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) will issue guidance to help local school divisions execute plans to continue instruction, while ensuring students are served equitably, regardless of income level, access to technology, English learner status or special needs. This includes options for additional instruction through summer programming, affording flexibility in course requirements and integrating instruction into coursework next year. The VDOE is also in contact with the federal government and is preparing a waiver for testing requirements. The VDOE has also been working closely with the Governor’s Office, the Virginia Department of Health, and other state agencies to ensure our public schools and communities have the most up-to-date information and resources to be proactive and to respond to concerns about COVID-19. The health and safety of our children and staff are our top priorities. We continue to hear from parents and our school leaders about their concerns and understand the fears any parent may have. The VDOE has created the attached parent’s guide to serve as a resource for parents, families and caregivers on a variety of topics related to COVID-19 and their students.

Continue to visit the VDOE website for additional updates and guidance on COVID-19. If you have questions, please contact the VDOE Department of Special Education and Student Services, at specialed.assistantsuperintendent.memo@doe.virginia.gov.