Orange County Executive Recommends Two-Week School Closures

Due to the increased cases of the coronavirus, Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus has recommended that all public and private schools close for two weeks.

A state of emergency has been declared in Orange, Ulster, and Dutchess counties, and Orange County is following Ulster and Dutchess in recommending all public and private schools close for two weeks. Currently, Orange County has three positive COVID-19 cases.

"Closing schools is a preventative measure that has been taken throughout New York State and the country. After careful and serious discussion with Orange County’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Irina Gelman, and the County’s school superintendents, we feel that this is the most prudent course of action for our County schools. The intention is to protect our students, faculty and administration from contracting COVID-19, and to mitigate the spread of the virus. The safety of our County residents is our highest priority. We will continue to work vigorously, together with all of our partners, to keep residents safe and protected," Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said

The following steps are being taken by Executive Neuhaus to prevent further spread of the coronavirus:

All visitation to Orange County Jail suspended effective March 13
Civil Service exams are postponed through the end of March
Recommendation of suspension of all classroom and extracurricular activities for 14 days. Schools may remain open to administrative staff, and staff functions. This order does not include private daycare facilities, head start, or another daycare program.

Remember to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your face, and contact with others. More information can be found on the Orange County Executive Neuhaus' website.

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