Indiana Schools Still Wait For Answers As Holcomb Begins Reopening Businesses

Many Indiana schools are waiting for answers even after Gov. Eric Holcomb rolled out his plan for reopening the state.

School buildings are still closed through June 30, and that hasn't changed even with the governor's state reopening plan. Schools can and have been using buildings for some essential things like preparing and distributing meals and learning materials, as well as offering child care as directed through previous executive orders. 

READ MORE: Governor Holcomb Outlines How – And Why – The State Will Reopen

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But the governor's new order to ease pandemic prevention restrictions that were put in place weeks ago is allowing some schools to still make some plans. School corporations around the state have shared ideas and tentative dates for adapted graduation ceremonies and celebrations, and for students to pick up their belongings from school. 

Vigo County Schools spokesperson Bill Riley says anything to guide schools during this unpredictable time is helpful. But whether or not the state actually follows Holcomb's timeline is up to how the situation with COVID-19 changes heading into summer – and is still as unpredictable as ever.

"Things have to go well for that timeline the governor put out to be followed," Riley says.

Indiana's Superintendent of Schools, Jennifer McCormick has told educators they'll likely stay remote through summer school, but the final decision has yet to be made. Holcomb says the state will decide in July when and how to bring kids back to school.

Contact Jeanie at jlindsa@iu.edu or follow her on Twitter at @jeanjeanielindz.

This is a rapidly evolving story, and we are working hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, we recommend checking the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Indiana State Department of Health for the most recent numbers of COVID-19 cases.