EAST PROVIDENCE — East Providence Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sandra Forand in consultation with the administration of Mayor Bob DaSilva announced students here will once again attend classes in-person Friday, Dec. 15, under an early dismissal schedule as traffic problems created in city due to the closure of the westbound side of the Washington Bridge ease just a bit.

Students took study remotely on Wednesday, Dec. 13, then returned to buildings under a modified slate on Thursday, Dec. 14.

In order to ensure busses can transport elementary students home before the rush hour traffic increases, East Providence High School school will again dismiss at 12:45 p.m., the middle schools at 1:45 p.m. and elementary at 2:45 p.m.

The district continues to encourage families to walk to school or carpool whenever possible, especially in heavily congested areas on Pawtucket and Taunton Avenues and the Broadways.

In an effort to support parents/ guardians who have to travel to work after student drop off, schools are opening 15 minutes early on Thursday and Friday. School start times will remain the same.

Early drop off times are:
High School- 6:45 a.m.
Middle- 7:30 a.m.
Elementary- 8:25 a.m.
PreK- regular start time

Forand wrote in an email to families, "Our goal is to keep schools open but this is a continuously evolving situation that will be monitored closely. Decisions will be made with the safety of students and staff as the priority. We appreciate your continued flexibility and understanding as we navigate this difficult situation."