The Diocese of Jackson announced Wednesday that Catholic schools within the diocese will remain closed for the remainder of the school year.

The diocese includes St. Francis Xavier and St. Aloysius in Vicksburg.

The announcement comes one day after Gov. Tate Reeves announced public schools in the state would not reopen for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.

“Because Bishop (Joseph) Kopacz and I, in consultation with diocesan and local school administrators, agree that it is in the best interest of our students, your families, our staff, or the community in which you live, the Diocese of Jackson Catholic School buildings will remain closed for instruction and will continue with distance learning to complete this academic school term,” Superintendent of Education Catherine Cook said in a letter to parents, staff and administrators Wednesday. “Our hope is that during this difficult time, the added prayers and reflections provided to your families through student lessons and social media have been a source of spiritual support for your family.”

In the statement, Cook said the diocese would have the following schedule:

• April 15–May 8 — Daily distance learning instruction continues
• May 8–15 — Students complete and submit assignments and assessments
• May 18-21 — Books, technology, team uniforms, etc. will be collected in a manner determined and communicated by the local School Administrator.
• May 22 — Final report cards issued.

“Local school administrators will continue to communicate with you as the school year continues. Please be assured of the support of Bishop Kopacz, diocesan leadership, and especially the Office of Education staff,” she said. “We continue to pray for you. May God bless your family during the Easter season.”