Wichita USD-259 Superintendant Dr. Alicia Thompson and Division Director of Operations Fabian Armendariz on Tuesday night addressed how the closing of Kansas schools due to the coronavirus will affect Wichita Public Schools.
Dr. Thompson said that even though school buildings will be closed, work for employees and learning for students will continue. She added that the Commissioner for the Kansas State Department of Education Dr. Randy Watson has directed districts to develop continuous learning plans. All USD 259 spring events and athletic activites have been canceled, including proms and high school graduation ceremonies. However, students will still be able to graduate.
Dr. Thompson also said all district employees will be paid during this time period.
Armendariz said the state's plan will allow the district to provide meals for students much like they do during the summer. Armendariz added that children will not need to be enrolled in Wichita Public Schools to receive meals and that the district has been in discussion with local area partners that are interested in filling in gaps with feeding Wichita kids.
A complete list of sites, as well as, instructions for families will be released on Monday, March 23rd.
