U.S. Department of Education Announces Recommendations on the Continuity of Learning in Case of Flu Outbreak
August 25, 2009
U.S. Department of Education Announces Recommendations on the Continuity of Learning in Case of Flu Outbreak
New recommendations on the continuity of learning in the
event of student absences or school closures due to seasonal flu or H1N1
outbreaks were announced on August 24, 2009 by the U.S. Department of
Education. U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius noted, “Our top
priority is making sure that [students] have a way to get well, stay well and
to keep learning. With these recommendations, we’re providing a menu of
strategies for educators to help ensure that the learning process will
continue.” The recommendations suggest that educators prepare take-home
assignments in advance for distribution to affected students and use the
Internet and telephones to post homework materials, conduct classes, share
information and keep teachers, parents and students in the loop. The department
is working with Google, Apple, Microsoft, Scholastic Inc., Pearson, Curriki,
the International Association for Online Learning and other private sector
partners, and service providers to make continuity of learning resources like
pre-printed lesson plans, conference call services, webinar support, podcasting,
and virtual classrooms more affordable and accessible for educators. See also:
Preparing for the Flu: Department of Education Recommendations to Ensure the Continuity of Learning for Schools (K-12) During Extended Student Absence or School Dismissal
CHHCS: News Alert, August 7, 2009 - CDC Releases Update on Interim Recommendations for K-12 Schools in Response to H1N1
CHHCS: Flu Season and Schools