DocuSign Envelope ID: 466E2C5B-7022-4306-9893-09346C236AF1

April 9, 2020
The Honorable John Bel Edwards
Governor, State of Louisiana
Office of the Governor
900 North Third St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9004
Dear Governor Edwards:
On behalf of the Louisiana Department of Education, I write to you with the understanding you are considering whether
to extend the closure of school facilities for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic school year in response to the
ongoing public health crisis. While local school systems set their own calendars, most school systems traditionally end
their school years in the final weeks of May.
If an extension of school facility closures is approved for safety, it is critical for learning to continue. Every community
needs a plan for continued learning. This not only ensures academic progress and social support for students and
families; it provides stability during an uncertain and unprecedented time.
The Department recognizes school systems will need plans for continued learning opportunities possibly during the
summer and especially for the upcoming school year that are unique to their resources, student population, and
community needs. As such, the Department stands committed to supporting school systems in the development and
implementation of those plans to ensure every child has access to education.
The Department also remains committed to ensuring every child continues to have access to nutritious meals in their
community through established school feeding sites and programs.
Our children deserve nothing less.
Thank you,

Beth Scioneaux
Acting State Superintendent