DeSantis: Florida public schools to remain closed until April 15

Florida public school students rejoice: DeSantis cancels 2019-20 testing

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis gives an update on the state's response to the coronavirus outbreak. (News4Jax)

MIAMI – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday Florida’s public school closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic will be extended to April 15.

In an effort to adapt to students’ new needs, Gov. Ron DeSantis also announced he is canceling what is left of this year’s Pre-K and K-12 students’ testing in Florida.

Recommended Videos



He directed the Florida Department of Education to use the funds to help low-income students to get what they need to be able to participate in remote education.

DeSantis also said Florida’s school districts can use the funds that were allocated for testing to improve the availability of mental health services with resources such as virtual counseling.

DeSantis said teachers must evaluate the requirements for course grades, grade promotion and graduation without considering the state tests.

DeSantis also said parents will be able to decide if they want their children to repeat this year’s grade during the 2020-21 school year.

BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The distribution of electronic devices is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at public schools.

Here is what parents need to do:

Present the student’s online username and password.

• Complete a property pass and other forms prior to accepting a device at the child’s school.

To expedite the device distribution process, parents/guardians are encouraged to complete the required forms online. The forms and more information can be found at browardschools.com/coronavirus.

In addition, for families needing internet access, Comcast has expanded its Internet Essentials program, which offers free internet services for eligible families for 60 days. Visit internetessentials.com to learn more.


About the Author:

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.