Catholic Schools to use extended-learning, waivers through at least May 1

By Megan Erbacher
The Message assistant editor

Diocese of Evansville Catholic School students will continue to complete school-work through a combination of virtual extended-learning days and waiver days through at least May 1.

Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. Daryl Hagan announced March 19 that each week will consist of four extended-learning days with one waiver day, granted by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. The waiver day will allow teachers time to prepare lessons each week.

Each Catholic School provided additional details regarding specifics to their students and families.

The schedule will begin March 30 and extend through May 1, or completion of the school year on May 15.

In light of Indiana Governor Holcomb’s March 23 stay-at-home order, Hagan plans to provide weekly updates to the school community, families and students via The Message. His updates will also be posted on The Message website, as well as to The Message social media accounts: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Links can be found at the end of this article.

Hagan said Catholic Schools, collaborating with parents and guardians as the primary educators, seek to educate the whole child by providing an excellent education rooted in Gospel values. In the past few weeks, he said the collaboration between families and schools has never been truer.

“As parents and educators, we understand that students need structure and routine, even in the midst of uncertainty,” Hagan said. “The reality of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic is that we will continue to provide a Catholic education to our students utilizing creative and innovative instructional practices for the foreseeable future, and potentially for the remainder of the school year.”

Hagan applauded school administrators, faculty and staff who continue to rise to the challenge of providing a Catholic education within this new format. He also commended parents and students for creating learning centers within their homes dedicated to continual learning and completing assignments.

“Our Catholic school families and staff are unified and strong,” Hagan said. “For 75 years, the Catholic Diocese of Evansville has strived to live as a community of faith, hope and charity, rooted in Christ. The Coronavirus outbreak has not changed that for any of us.”

Check online for the most up-to-date Catholic Schools news Dr. Daryl Hagan will provide weekly updates on any Catholic Schools news via The Message.

Please visit our website and social media accounts for the latest information:

Preventative steps, per CDC recommendations:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.