Order Prohibiting Nonpublic Schools From Reopening Rescinded By Montgomery County Health Officer
ROCKVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- Montgomery County health officer Dr. Travis Gayles announced Friday that he has rescinded his health order that prohibited nonpublic schools from opening for in-person learning until after October 1.
The decision was made due to the new policy announced Thursday by the State Department of Health prohibiting the blanket closure of nonpublic schools, Montgomery County officials said.
Related Coverage:
- Private Schools In Montgomery County Required To Stay Closed For In-Person Learning Through October 1 Under New Order
- Gov. Hogan Criticizes Montgomery County's Online-Only Private School Order
The new order is effective immediately and rescinds the order dated August 5.
Dr. Gayles said he strongly advises schools against in-person learning due to the risks posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
He has asked that the Department of Health provide articulable criteria to be used in determining acceptable and safe levels of activity in schools.
Gov. Hogan issued the following statement about the decision.
Pleased to see that Montgomery Co. has rescinded the blanket mandate closing private and parochial schools. As long as their plans follow CDC and state guidelines, they should have the same flexibility as public school systems & be empowered to do what's best for their community.
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) August 7, 2020
For the latest information on coronavirus go to the Maryland Health Department's website or call 211. You can find all of WJZ's coverage on coronavirus in Maryland here.