New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Saturday that all of the city's schools will remain closed for the rest of the academic year.
De Blasio admitted that the decision wasn't "easy" during a press briefing at City Hall, but he feels this step needs to be taken amid the coronavirus outbreak.
"It will help us to save lives," De Blasio said per the New York Post. "It’s the right decision."
The city is hoping to reopen the schools in September. Chancellor Richard Carranza, however, explained that the trajectory of the virus would determine when the schools will start welcoming students again.
"Everything is on the table, but nothing has been decided because circumstances in terms of public health will determine when we open again," Carranza said.
Currently, the city is working on getting devices to students that don't have them so that they can work on their assignments at home. It is also setting up a plan to give assistance to parents who are coaching their children through the remote learning process as well as providing additional materials for students.
Additionally, the city recognizes that around 75,000 seniors are set to graduate. De Blasio told the media there probably won't be graduation ceremonies, but the city will work tirelessly to make sure they meet the necessary requirements.
"We do not want to see these seniors robbed of their future," the mayor said.
