New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu has signed an executive order to ensure the continuation of special education services for students amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The governor made the announcement during a Tuesday afternoon news conference saying the order requires each school district in the Granite State to hold Individualized Education Program (IEP) team meetings to consider extended school year services for every child with an individual education plan.
"Too many students are still at risk of slipping through the cracks" Sununu said.
The order, which has the support of Disability Rights Center New Hampshire and Advocates Building Lasting Equality, will help ensure that students with individualized education plans "continue to receive the support they need."
The governor reminded small business owners that Friday is the deadline to fill out a prequalification application for Main Street Relief Fund. The fund aims to help small businesses manage the economic disruption brought on by the pandemic.
So far, 7,700 businesses have filled out the application, Sununu said.
There were four additional deaths in New Hampshire reported from COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, on Tuesday. The total number of deaths now stands at 214.
Officials announced 34 new cases of COVID-19 bringing the total to 4,231, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
The scheduled remarks came as the state prepares for another wave of business and recreation reopenings on June 1.
On Friday, the governor said coastal beaches will be able to open in a "measured, safe approach" on that day. Granite Staters will be able to go to the beach for recreational activities like running, walking, swimming and surfing. Parking lots will be limited to 50% capacity and sitting, lounging, and sports will be prohibited.
Small beaches on lakes and ponds that are town-owned or in the state parks system are already open, but state officials are asking people to not sit on blankets.
Also on June 1, fitness centers like aerobics, yoga, gymnastics, dance, and martial arts may open to small-group classes only, Sununu said. Facilities must comply with social distancing guidelines of eight to 10 feet between individuals, follow cleaning and disinfection protocols and keep capacity to 50%.
Other businesses that will be able to open June 1 include acupuncturists, massage therapists, tattoo shops, tanning salons and nail salons. Each business must follow cleaning and disinfection guidance and all staff must wear cloth face coverings.
The governor said Tuesday that he hopes to have an announcement later in the week on lodging business.
