March 15, 2020 Hillsboro, MO — School districts in Jefferson County, along with representatives from the Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Administration Office, and Mercy Hospitals 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 17 through Friday, April 3. The anticipated reopening date for schools is April 6, 2020; however, the date is subject to change pending further information.
All school activities, including athletic and extracurricular practices and competitions, will be canceled during the time schools are closed. This also includes the use of any facilities by any outside groups or teams.
Keeping our students, 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. The decision to close schools was not taken lightly and 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.
Individual school districts will be in contact with their communities to provide additional information regarding ongoing learning plans, as well as social services for those in need. All districts and schools are focused on this planning and will be in touch in the coming days through their designated communication channels.
We will continue to remain in contact with public health officials, elected leaders, and neighboring school districts and keep families and media updated with new information as it becomes available. We thank our community for their support and partnership in this effort.
Crystal City 47 Superintendent Dr. Steven Barnes
DeSoto 73 Superintendent Dr. Josh Isaacson
Dunklin R-V Superintendent Dr. Stan Stratton
Festus R-VI Superintendent Dr. Link Lutrell
Fox C-6 Superintendent Dr. Nisha Patel
Grandview R-II Superintendent Mr. Matt Zoph
Hillsboro R-III Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson
Jefferson R-VII Superintendent Mr. Clint Johnston
Northwest R-I Superintendent Dr. Desi Kirchhofer
Sunrise R-IX Superintendent Dr. Armand Spurgin
Windsor C-1 Superintendent Dr. Joel Holland