One month into closure, New Orleans schools still distributing laptops, hotspots
Access to technology and lack of it — often called the digital divide — have emerged as a critical issue in statewide school closures across the country.
Author: Marta Jewson
- About Marta Jewson
- Marta Jewson covers education in New Orleans for The Lens. She began her reporting career covering charter schools for The Lens and helped found the hyperlocal news site Mid-City Messenger. Jewson returned to New Orleans in the fall of 2014 after covering education for the St. Cloud Times in Minnesota. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with majors in journalism and social welfare and a concentration in educational policy studies. Jewson has covered New Orleans schools for 15 years through the nation's largest education reform experiment. She was a founding member of the outlet's Charter School Reporting Corps and was instrumental in holding schools accountable to sunshine laws during the rapid expansion of charter schools in the city.
Edwards says order closing schools for year is coming Tuesday
The announcement follows a request from state education leaders to cancel the remainder of the academic year.
New Orleans schools prepare for unknown financial impacts from COVID-19
While tourism- and oil-dependent Louisiana may take a bigger hit than many states, New Orleans’ charter schools have unique protection in federal programs.
Governor likely to shutter public schools through end of academic year
The Governor said he would sign an order after meeting with acting state superintendent. The announcement came hours after the state board of education requested schools not reopen.
Lusher’s kindergarten lottery delayed by school closure
Parents awaiting lottery results are likely deciding between multiple schools, some that may require deposits.
School district: Laptops, hotspots will go to students this week
The NOLA Public Schools district purchased laptops and wireless hotspots for students who need them during the six-week school closure.
Governor says Louisiana schools shuttered through April 30
Earlier Thursday, the state said high school seniors could graduate by completing courses online.
High school seniors can finish online, pass/fail, other options for Class of 2020 amid COVID-19 school closure
Officials have waived several graduation requirements, including certain state exams and seat time, in response to the statewide school closure.
Challenges, questions as special education shifts to homes during statewide school closure
Often one-on-one, moving special education services like counseling and therapy to homes is another challenge for families.
Amid pandemic, class of 2020 awaits graduation requirements
With schools closed for a month, and possibly longer, it’s unclear what seniors must complete to earn a diploma. The state will issue guidelines later this week.
