School districts in the Baltimore area had to alter their transportation operations due to the unrest in the city this week related to protests that devolved into looting and clashes with police over the death of Freddie Gray.
While the Baltimore City Public Schools were open on Monday, district officials had staff and mobile units available to escort students between school buildings and bus stops. But after a chain of events began in the afternoon after school dismissal that resulted in the looting of stores, clashes with police and building and vehicle burning — the Baltimore Police Department confirmed that the majority of rioters were school-age children — the district decided to close Tuesday. Classes resumed Wednesday.
“At this time, we are moving forward to open schools tomorrow as scheduled. With students, staff, family members, partners, volunteers, and community members, City Schools is more than 100,000 strong — and in the coming days and weeks we’ll be marshaling our strength in support of our students and a successful end to their school year,” said BCPS CEO Gregory Thornton in a statement Tuesday.
He added that the district was collaborating with community organizations and city police to ensure that the journey to school was as safe as possible for BCPS students, both those who walk and ride the bus.
Meanwhile, the Anne Arundel County Public Schools district in Annapolis, approximately 30 miles south of Baltimore, canceled all student transportation into and out of Baltimore for the rest of the week. This decision affected not only scheduled field trips, but also many special needs students who attend non-public facilities within the district, as well as homeless students living in Baltimore and attending school in Anne Arundel County.
About 40 scheduled field trips for students from elementary to high school were canceled.
“While we hope that the demonstrations remain civil and peaceful, I feel it is in the best interests of our students, staff, and parents to keep them away from any potential disturbances,” said Superintendent George Arlotto. “I am disappointed that our children may miss out on great opportunities, but I would hope that everyone involved in our school system understands the need for this precaution.”
