Dear OUSD Community,

Yesterday, Governor Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Thurmond announced that all California schools would remain closed to students through the end of the 2019-2020 school year as a result of increased COVID-19 cases throughout the state. The extension of school closures reaffirms the Governor’s previous statements and his intention to continue the “stay at home” order to protect public health.

On March 24 at a Special Emergency Meeting, the Orange Unified School District Board of Education voted to extend the dismissal of students until May 8, 2020, subject to future extensions if deemed necessary. Given this new announcement from Governor Newsom and pursuant to the District Emergency Resolution #25-19-20, Orange Unified School District will extend the dismissal of students through the end of the school year.

While Orange Unified School District schools and facilities will remain closed to students and the public, I would like to emphasize that online distance learning and support services will continue, including online school counseling services, grab-and-go nutritional meals, and device distribution and connectivity. School principals will also continue to respond to parents and students. District staff and teachers will be working together to fulfill the State directive to strengthen our delivery of education through online distance learning and support services.

This sudden announcement may come as a shock, especially since there are many unanswered questions regarding grades, commencement ceremonies, and registration for classes next year. The State Superintendent will soon release technical guidance to address the concerns of our seniors regarding graduation requirements and grading.

Please stay in touch with your student’s teacher and school principal for further updates about online distance learning. Orange Unified School District remains committed to supporting the online learning process until the end of the school year. You can access more information about these resources at orangeusd.org/resources.

We are confronted with an unprecedented public health challenge with the rapid spread of COVID-19, and our actions today will determine our future. While these are difficult times, working together we make it better for our children and their future. Please stay healthy, safe, and follow the “Stay at Home” order. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need assistance.

Sincerely,

Gunn Marie Hansen, Ph.D.