Coronavirus Update 2

Dear School Families and School Staff,  

Earlier this week, we notified you that all Archdiocesan secondary and schools of special education, along with all parish and regional elementary schools, would be extending the use of the flexible instruction model to remain aligned with Governor Wolf’s order to keep school buildings closed. Several days later, Archbishop Pérez announced the suspension of public Mass and other public liturgical celebrations through Easter with an indication that this suspension would continue to be evaluated pending developments relative to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

In light of the Archbishop’s announcement, we will be extending the use of flexible instruction through at least Easter Monday, April 13, 2020. This shift does not present a major issue as we were already scheduled to be closed from April 8th to April 13, 2020 for Easter Break.  

A return to actual classes in school remains a moving target at this time. We will continue to evaluate circumstances pending developments and remain aligned with guidelines set forth by appropriate authorities. If you have not received a list of virtual masses yet, you can request it from your principals  
Again, we thank you for your cooperation in this process and thank the teachers, staff and administrators at our schools for providing innovative, high quality instruction to our young people during this challenging time. Their dedication and commitment to our students is a great source of pride and the reason that this process is working so well.  
We will continue to monitor the CDC recommendations as well as directives from governmental agencies and adjust policies accordingly. We continue to provide regular updates regarding this situation on a dedicated coronavirus page on the AOP Schools website. https://aopcatholicschools.org/covid-19-information/

This time is a challenging one for all of us. Our primary goal will remain to provide for the health and safety of all those entrusted to our care. The Office of Catholic Education has set up a dedicated point of contact where parents can share their questions and concerns. Messages may be sent to covid19@archphila-oce.org. Be assured of our continued prayers for all those affected by this virus.  

Sincerely in Christ,    
 Andrew McLaughlin, Ed.D.   Superintendent for Elementary Schools