Coffee County and Manchester City Schools to close until March 31st.
Education March 16, 2020 Daniel Prince
Following Gov. Lee’s statement released this morning, Coffee County Schools and Manchester City Schools will be following the guidance of Gov. Lee and will be closed through March 31st.
Manchester City Schools released a statement that said “Nutrition services for children 18 and under will be available beginning March 17 from 9 – 11 am at Westwood Elementary, College Street Elementary, Manchester Fire Station 1, and Manchester Fire Station 2.”
” While we value learning and academics for every student, we understand that student and family safety is the top priority. At this time, we are encouraging families to utilize online and print resources that are available at home to continue student progress. If the situation requires the district to close past Spring Break, specific guidelines and resources will be made available.”
Additional information will be posted on local media, social media, and the district website.
“The safety of our students and staff is always the primary concern of Manchester City Schools. While our students and staff are our focus, we also are concerned about the consequences associated with our decision to close schools. Closing schools will have an impact on working parents, will affect the labor force of local industries, and may prevent some students from receiving a nutritious meal. We do not take the decision to close school lightly because of the effects it has on everyone. However, given the information provided regarding Coronavirus or COVID – 19, we believe it is in the best interest of our schools and community to close school for an extended period of time. Manchester City Schools will be closed from March 16 until March 20. All school sponsored activities are also suspended at this time. A decision regarding following weeks will be made by noon on March 19. It is extremely important to understand the district will take a responsible and thoughtful response to COVID – 19. We will continue to monitor the situation and act accordingly. Families, please watch for notifications regarding breakfast and lunch opportunities through social media and local news outlets.”