Duluth Public School leaders approved extending winter break by two days Tuesday night to help address COVID safety, staffing shortages, and mental health needs.

According to the district, there will now be no class for any Duluth Public School students on Wednesday, Dec. 22 and Monday, Jan. 3.

Previously, Duluth School’s winter break began Thursday, Dec. 23 and ended Friday, Dec. 31.

“With general staffing shortages, many unfilled positions and a shortage of temporary help, every position in the district has been impacted,” said John Magas, Superintendent. “We need to ensure that we have sufficient custodial, clerical, child nutrition, paraprofessional, transportation, support, childcare, and instructional staff to safely serve our students.”

Magas said the extended break will help families struggling mentally through the pandemic.

The district plans to offer some kind of food service and child care to those who need it. Magas said more details are expected soon.

Magas also said the school district plans to provide COVID testing for students and staff on January 3 as they return to school from winter break.

More details on that are expected soon.

To see the original report and read related stories, follow this link to the KBJR-TV website. https://www.kbjr6.com/2021/12/07/duluth-schools-approve-extending-winter-break-by-2-days-help-with-c...