With Schools Now Closed Until May 4, McCandless Weighs In On Challenges

Governor Charlie Baker announced recently that schools would not re open on April 7, but now May 4. This comes due to the fact that the Covid-19 crisis is not lessening, in fact, it's worsening.

On Thursday evening Vermont Gov. Phil Scott announced that all schools would be closed through the end of the academic year.

When asked if Massachusetts would follow suit, Superintendent McCandless said "it's possible", but refused to interfere with the Baker administration's future plans.

McCandless was live with Slater and Marjo in the morning on Friday to discuss the challenging and unprecedented times.

Continuing school without being able to be at school is a challenge unlike any of us have ever seen or even considered. We appreciate the teamwork and collaboration from all involved to make this work for kids and families. -Dr. Jason McCandless

Some students have been in regular contact with their teachers and plans for continuing education from home are in the works.

McCandless also implored all students to update their latest contact information at pittsfield.net.

When asked if students had to repeat a year or "stay back", he said, "No", and that they would pick up in September where they left off in March if schools were to not re open for the rest of the 2019-2020 calendar year.

He also mentioned that there is no plan to furlough or layoff any employees within the PIttsfield Public School system at this time.