Princeton Schools Extend Remote Learning Through April 17

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Schools will extend remote learning from home through April 17 due to the growing number of new coronavirus in town.

The district closed on March 13 and initially planned to remain closed through Friday, March 27 with remote learning in place.

Princeton Public Schools Superintendent Steve Cochrane made the announcement to extend the at-home learning to parents and staff on Tuesday night.

"Our governor's executive order 104 has closed schools indefinitely throughout New Jersey. I don't know when schools will be officially allowed to reopen, but I do know that staff and families are looking for guidance beyond this Friday, which will mark the end of our initial period of remote learning," Cochrane said. "Consequently, after consulting with our local Health Officer, I am extending the remote learning period for the Princeton Public Schools at least through Friday, April 17. We will re-evaluate as we near the end of that time period."

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Cochrane shared some important points to keep in mind as the district moves forward:

1. Our schools and offices are now all operating remotely. District buildings are open on a very limited basis only to essential employees. If you have questions or requests, please email us. We are trying to protect our staff, our students and our community.
2. Reach out if you need food or know someone who does. Here is a link to our application (in both English and Spanish) to receive free or reduced priced meals during this time period when schools are physically closed. We recognize that this crisis has placed an economic hardship on many of our families — a hardship that is likely to increase. If your economic circumstances have changed or if they do in the future, please go to the link above to review the income guidelines for receiving federally funded meals. You can also get help in completing the application through the Princeton Children's Fund or make a donation to a family in need.
3. Spring Break will be a true break. We all need to take a breath right now. During the week of April 6 to 10, please do just that. Relax. Laugh. Spend time with neighbors and family — just do it from a distance and remember to wash your hands!

There are a total of 11 positive COVID-19 cases in Princeton as of Tuesday night. (Princeton University Student Confirmed As 11th Positive Case)

Murphy also announced on Wednesday that the state has 736 more positive tests and 18 more deaths, raising the case total to 4,402 and the death toll to 62. (See Related: Gov. Murphy To Shut Many Day Care Centers Amid Coronavirus Crisis)

The update comes as the number of cases continues to rise in New Jersey, with 44 deaths. The case total is the second-highest in the country. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

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