School out until at least May 15
Another executive order issued by Gov. Roy Cooper on Monday continues to make the future of the 2019-20 school year look bleak.
Cooper announced several new business closures as part of Executive Order No. 120, but also extended the closure of all schools in the state through Friday, May 15. Students last day in school was Friday, March 13.
Graham County Schools Superintendent Angie Knight weighed in on the order in a Facebook post Monday, which included the announcement of several teachers being sent home.
“Although we support that decision because it is the right decision in this time of uncertainty, our hearts are heavy for our students, our staff and our community,” Knight said. “Most importantly, we worry about how our children, your children, are dealing with this whole situation. It is a very stressful time for children and adults.
“Check on your children, your neighbors, your family. Pray for our staff as we try to take on this new task. The sooner we can ‘flatten the curve,’ the sooner we can get back to a routine and welcome our precious students and staff back to school.”
Schools will continue to provide meal distribution and academic instruction.
Beginning at 5 p.m. Wednesday, the order also decreed that mass gatherings of more than 50 people was prohibited.
At the same time, places such as gaming locations and hair/nail salons will also close.
Long-term care facilities will also be prohibited from allowing visitors under the order, except for in the case of an end-of-life situation.