Medford, Massachusetts schools forced to close on Good Friday due to staffing shortages

Public schools in Medford, Massachusetts will be closed on Good Friday, April 3, because of staffing shortages. The district made the announcement on Tuesday and the late notice has left some families struggling to adjust their plans. 

"We're lucky that we are a little flexible with our work, but I'm sure it was late notice for a lot of folks," said parent Alden Johnson during pickup at Brooks Elementary School on Wednesday. "I'm sure no one wanted it to happen this way, but everyone's doing their best. I think a little bit of planning in the future would go a long way."

Others expressed frustration over the timing of the decision, saying it should have come sooner.

"I think people are really, really frustrated," said Jill Ayers, who is a nanny for a Brooks Elementary family. "They could have made this decision a lot sooner. It's not something they just found out over the weekend, so I don't know why they are waiting until the last minute."

In a statement to WBZ, the district acknowledged the disruption.

"We recognize that unexpectedly canceling school creates challenges for students and families, and we apologize for the impact this has caused, especially our families with young students," the statement said.

District officials said they plan to reevaluate current policies and procedures related to the school calendar and religious holidays.

Some parents, however, supported the decision, saying it allows staff to observe the holiday.

"I'm very grateful that they're able to close it and give the teachers the chance to celebrate the holiday," said Sarah Kim. "I'm hoping that they can put that on the school calendar next year."

The district plans to make up the lost day during the last week of June, extending the school year. The final day of school is now scheduled for June 25.