State education officials on Thursday moved to cancel the August Regents examinations as the coronavirus pandemic continues to upend the academic calendar.
The State Education Department had previously this month moved to suspend most year-end examinations, including the June Regents tests.
“This situation has been ongoing such that schools have now been closed statewide for an extended period,” wrote Interim Education Commissioner Shannon Tahoe in a memorandum to school officials.
“There is much uncertainty as to when regular in-school attendance and instruction will be able to resume throughout the State and whether students will be adequately prepared to take Regents Examinations. It is most important that during the time of closure, educators be able to continue to focus their efforts toward local school and community needs and not have to be concerned about preparing students for State assessments.”
Education officials previously released a set of guidance documents for graduation requirements.
Schools have been closed in New York since March, and any reopening will likely be tied to when businesses are beginning to return once Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s “pause” order is lifted.