Understanding the Correct Sentence Usage: 'School is Closed' vs. 'School Has Closed'

When it comes to announcing a school closure, both 'school is closed' and 'school has closed' can be correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. Choosing the right sentence depends on the context and the intended emphasis.

1. Present Tense: 'School is Closed'

The present tense statement 'school is closed' is a straightforward declaration of the school's current state. It indicates that the school is not open at the moment and is often used in the context of a temporary closure, such as during holidays or emergencies.

Usage:

Examples:

“School is closed for the winter break. It will re-open on January 2.” “Due to the storm, school is closed today.”

2. Present Perfect Tense: 'School Has Closed'

The present perfect tense 'school has closed' indicates that the action of closing has occurred recently and provides a sense of immediacy. It emphasizes the change from being open to being closed and may imply that the closure is a recent event, yet the consequences of that closure are still felt today.

Usage:

Examples:

“The school has closed, and nearby parking lots have been converted into public spaces.” “School has been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, online classes are still available.”

Modifying Usage with Additional Clauses

Both sentences can be further modified to provide additional context.

“School is closed today but will re-open next week.” “School has closed for renovations, which will take several months.”

Correct Usage of Pandemic Terminology

Neither sentence is correct if 'covid pandemic' is used without the. The correct forms are:

“Schools are being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” “Schools have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

It is important to use 'COVID-19' instead of 'covid' in formal contexts to ensure clarity and correctness.

Present Continuous and Present Perfect Tense in Passive Voice

Present Continuous Passive Voice: Are Being Closed

The present continuous passive voice 'are being closed' is useful when some schools are still open and are deciding whether to close, while others have already been closed. This tense highlights the action of closing as something that is currently in progress or being considered.

“Some schools are being closed as the local government reviews the situation.” “Half of the schools in the district are being closed this year to balance resources.”

Present Perfect Passive Voice: Have Been Closed

The present perfect passive voice 'have been closed' is beneficial when stating that the schools recently closed and are still closed. This tense emphasizes the ongoing impact of the closure.

“Schools have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They will reopen after vaccinations are more widely available.” “Schools have been closed for two weeks and are now reopened with new safety protocols.”

When to Use Each Tense

Present Continuous Passive Voice: 'Are Being Closed'

When some schools are still open and are making decisions. When the closure is still in the process of being implemented.

Present Perfect Passive Voice: 'Have Been Closed'

When the closure is a recent event. When the consequences of the closure are still relevant today.

Conclusion

Both 'school is closed' and 'school has closed' are correct but serve different purposes. Choosing the right sentence depends on the context and the emphasis you want to convey. Clear and accurate communication is crucial in such a significant announcement, and using the appropriate tense ensures that your message is understood correctly.

For more information on using tenses and proper grammar in English, consult a reputable English grammar guide or a professional editor.