Lakewood School Year Will End Early, Board of Education Says

LAKEWOOD, OH — The Lakewood Board of Education voted to shorten the school year on Monday night. The Lakewood City Schools will now end the academic year on May 20, instead of June 2.

"By May 20, the District will have exceeded the state’s required instructional hours. Seniors, who traditionally end their year earlier than everyone else, will have their last day on May 14, 2020," the district said in a statement.

Teachers and principals will continue to work through June 3. The abbreviated school year will give staff more time to plan for next year, including bolstering a curriculum that will likely include some form of online education.

"The district will use this time without students to provide intensive professional development on delivering online instruction," the Lakewood City Schools said in a statement.

School district leaders also believe ending the school year early will provide relief for families, who are coping with myriad challenges during the COVID-19 crisis.

"We appreciate the huge amount of effort our families have put forth in helping their students maintain their education during this extremely difficult time. Our teachers will continue to provide the best education possible under the circumstances as we wrap up this unforgettable school year," the district said.

Meal pickup service for families will continue through June 2.