Archdiocesan elementary and high school in person-classes will remain suspended through the end of the 2019-2020 school year, according to an announcement made April 9.
Following new guidance from government and health officials in light of continuing developments with the COVID-19 outbreak, archdiocesan elementary and high schools in grades pre-K through 12 will continue distance learning for the remainder of the school year. Extra-curricular activities and athletics will continue to be postponed/canceled, including graduation ceremonies.
The announcement came as Gov. Mike Parson ordered that all Missouri public and charter school buildings will remain closed through the remainder of the academic year.
Archbishop Robert J. Carlson communicated to school administrators that, as with all decisions related to the COVID-19 crisis, the determination was made following consultation with archdiocesan leadership and local and state officials, as well as deep discernment in prayer. He reiterated that this is the best course of action to keep our students, staff and all those in our community safe, healthy and well.
Elementary-school distance learning will conclude Friday, May 8. The last day of school for all Catholic elementary schools will be Wednesday, May 13. Distance learning at archdiocesan high schools will conclude the week of May 18-22. Specific end-dates will vary by school.
The archdiocesan Office of Catholic Education and Formation will be providing additional guidance to schools next week and will meet virtually with administrators to assist with planning.
Archbishop Carlson and the Archdiocese of St. Louis will continue to support school leadership, and pray for the entire St. Louis community, especially during the celebration of Holy Week.
All decisions regarding parish, school and archdiocesan workplace operations will continue to be determined by developments in the COVID-19 situation throughout the Archdiocese of St. Louis, as well as by the effects on each individual community. The archdiocese will remain in contact with health officials for guidance in all decisions. Parishes, schools, and staff also should continue to review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines regularly, complying with all directives and recommendations from government agencies and offices, and reporting any pertinent information to the local health department.
All updates and resources from the Archdiocese of St. Louis regarding COVID-19, including coverage from the St. Louis Review, is available at archstl.org/coronavirus. Video messages of hope from priests of our archdiocese can be found at archstl.org/be-not-afraid.