Volusia schools closed until mid-April

Also in City Watch: OMAM and Chamber of Commerce close for March.


Empty halls at Osceola Elementary after the March 11 community meeting. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Empty halls at Osceola Elementary after the March 11 community meeting. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
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Schools around the state will remain closed until April 15, per the direction of Gov. Ron DeSantis due to the COVID-19 situation in Florida. 

The governor has also canceled state testing and all extra-curricular activities are suspended until further notice. 

Volusia County Schools Superintendent Scott Fritz issued a letter to parents, students and community members assuring them that preparations for digital and remote learning are in place for all Volusia schools. Remote learning is expected to  begin on March 30, according to the letter. 

“As the COVID 19 situation continues to develop, your School Board members and I understand that you have questions, concerns, and fears about the impact on our school district and you as critical stakeholders in our system,” Fritz said. “Please rest assured that the board and I will continue to monitor the situation carefully.”

Meals for students will still be provided at 27 locations starting next week on March 23 between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. In Ormond, meals will be provided at Tomoka Elementary and Osceola Elementary.  Mainland High School and Hinson Middle will also be providing meals.

What will happen regarding proms or graduations is still to be determined, Fritz said. 

The March 24 School Board meeting has been canceled.

City says walk-ins are restricted

While City Hall remains open, the city of Ormond Beach is asking utility customers pay their bills online rather than in person to minimize the threat of spreading COVID-19.

The city said residents can also pay by phone at 676-3209 or drop off a payment in the depository in the City Hall parking lot. Visit ormondbeach.org/coronavirus for more details or call 677-0311 to contact a specific department.

Chamber closes for the month

The Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce will be closed to the public through the end of March. 

President and CEO Debbie Cotton said in an email that chamber staff will be available by appointment only for in-person meetings, by phone and email. All chamber meetings were canceled through April 6 and net group meetings until April 7.

OMAM closes for March

The Ormond Memorial Art Museum will also close through March 29. 

“These decisions are tough to make but everyone’s health and safety are top of mind for all of us,” said Museum Director Susan Richmond in a press release.

This includes art classes, events and gallery viewings. 

The gardens remain open.

 

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