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Find the latest information on the Coronavirus outbreak in Utah, including public health measures, contact information, news updates, and more.

In Light of Pandemic, Student Assessment, School Day Requirements Suspended

The Utah State Board of Education has waived the requirement for 180 school days and 990 educational hours and is suspending statewide assessments because of both the state and national state of emergency declarations regarding the coronavirus pandemic. 

 

An update regarding the decision on coronavirus.utah.gov websites states that this decision is to “minimize burden and allow flexibility at the local level to continue education and services in a way that best serves the needs of their communities.”

 

The decision was made on Thursday and is in effect until June 30. 

 

According to the state website, these waivers are conditioned on the following rules:

 

  • Following state and local health official orders and timelines for dismissal, soft closure, or complete closure of schools

  • Implementing the local education agency’s School Closure Continuity of Education Plan

  • Providing as much notice and communication to students and parents of the suspension and reconvening of school services, including meal services.

 
Beyond waiving statewide assessments for students, the board is also among more than 35 other states that are seeking flexibility from the federal government in relation to laws requiring that statewide assessment happens. 

 

The full text of the decision can be found here. The information regarding this decision on the state website can be found here.