Santa Barbara School District to Close Through Academic Year

By edhat staff

The Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) will keep all schools closed through the end of the academic year and provide online learning due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

However, online instruction or "distance learning" will continue. 

SBUSD Superintendent Cary Matsuoka stated this past week included the first days of distance learning with many students, teachers, and families reporting positive experiences. The school district is also addressing any connectivity and technology needs for students.

"We realize that many will be disappointed with the news that our campuses will remain closed through the school year, but want to reiterate that our top priority continues to be the health and safety of our students, their families and our staff. We have made this decision in close consultation with our partnering school districts and the direction received from Governor Gavin Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond," said Matsuoka.

Due to the closure, graduation ceremonies have been cancelled as staff explores ideas to honor these events. 

Additionally, SBUSD will continue to provide breakfast and lunch grab-and-go meals for students to pick up Monday through Friday. The list of times and locations can be found here.