Providence moves back to normal school return after spring break

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Providence Public Schools said Friday that it will go back to a “normal return” for students and staff coming back from spring break.

The district said there will be no staggered return as there had been after previous school vacations.

“Providence Public Schools continue to move in the right direction in ensuring students can learn and thrive in schools safely,” Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green said in part in a release.

A spokesperson for Providence schools said the district will provide students and staff with two free at-home COVID-19 test each before the break. In addition, through April vacation, Providence schools will host three vaccination clinics.

“Protecting the safety of our students, their families, and our staff is always priority number one,” said Superintendent Javier Montañez.

The district said Wednesday it will allow masks to be optional starting April 11. This decision came a day after Montañez was named the permanent superintendent of Providence. He was the acting superintendent since Aug. 20.

Spring break runs from April 18 to 22.