Dear Dunklin R-5 Families and Community Members,
On Friday, March 13, 2020, Missouri Governor Mike Parson, signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in Missouri in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Representatives from the Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Administration Office, Mercy Hospitals, and Jefferson County Schools met today and determined that out of an abundance of caution, all Jefferson County Public Schools will close beginning at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17th and then will re-evaluate the status after two weeks.
Keeping our kids, educators, families, and communities safe is our top priority. We are using every tool we have to protect our community and will continue to do so in the coming days and weeks. We did not make the decision to close schools lightly. The determination to close schools was made with the health and well-being of everyone in mind. We understand everyone will be impacted and lives will be disrupted by our decision, but we believe we need to take such actions to protect our families and communities from this outbreak. Measures like closing schools and restricting mass gatherings are intended to slow the spread of the virus and assist our healthcare system, so those affected can receive the care needed. Early signs are beginning to occur with five confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the State of Missouri as of this morning. Based on trends from around the world over the past few months, spreading to more communities in our country over the next few weeks is likely.
The purpose of giving notice on the closure is to give each district in Jefferson County ample time to make plans for students, families, and educators. At Dunklin R-5, we are keeping our regular schedule for students and staff through March 17, 2020. The anticipated reopening date is April 6, 2020; however, the reopening date is subject to change pending further information.
Additionally, there will be no practices or games for any of the teams involved in MSHSAA athletics or activities through April 3, 2020. This will include outside use of facilities by outside groups or teams. During the closure, we are going to continue doing all we can to support the students and families of our school district with resources they may need while schools are closed.
We are also working to gather and communicate methods of ongoing communication with our students, faculty, and staff. Many students may feel nervous with this unexpected change in plans and isolation from friends and teachers. Our principals, teachers, and staff will want to be in contact with our kids during this time, as well.
We will continue to communicate using our various methods. Please ensure your contact information is up-to-date with the building office and you are connected to one or more of the following:
- District Website www.dunklin.k12.mo.us
- SchoolMessenger-phone and email
- Facebook page
- Twitter @BlackcatMatt
Thank you for your partnership during this time. Please let us know if you have any questions.
