Maryland extends closure of schools through May 15 amid battle against coronavirus

Maryland has extended the closure of schools through May 15 as the states fight the spread of the novel coronavirus.

“After extensive consultation with the State Board of Education and leading public health experts in the state, I am extending the closure of schools,” Maryland State Superintendent Dr. Karen Salmon said in a press conference Friday.

Salmon says they will use this time to consider every option for the remainder of the school year and into the summer in an attempt to develop a long-term plan for recovery.

Governor Larry Hogan talked about plans for recovery and the reopening of the state. Early next or later in the week, he will provide an update on the progress to introduce the “Maryland Strong: Roadmap To Recovery.”

Hogan reminded residents that starting tomorrow morning, masks, and face-covering will be required before entering retail establishments and on public transportation.

Hogan also announced that 8 million dollars were approved to provide 410 small businesses helping over 9,000 Maryland residents keep their jobs. Also, $3.8 billion in loans given to assist in nearly 12,000 Maryland businesses.

There are over 11,000 cases of coronavirus cases and 425 deaths report in the state.

D.C. Muriel Bowser announced the closures of schools in the District for the remainder of the academic year Friday morning.