Update: Springfield Public Schools are closed until April 3.
Original Story: There are currently no plans to close schools in the Springfield Public School District because of COVID-19. In a statement today, school officials said a decision to cancel classes would be made in collaboration with the Springfield-Greene County Health Department. They said they are receiving ongoing guidance from the health department.
Health Department director, Clay Goddard, says they aren’t advising the district to close schools. He said, “By remaining open, SPS continues to meet the academic and wellness needs of its 25,000 students.”
One of many factors in the decision to keep schools open is childcare, according to the district. Officials say a rapid, widespread need for childcare would have immediate implications for our region. And they say many of the district’s students depend on SPS for meals and a safe and secure learning environment.
The district says it has already stepped up cleaning efforts due to the flu season. And officials encourage parents to keep their children home if they’re sick.
