BY RACHEL DOVE
CITIZEN STAFF
INEZ — Martin County students got an extra day off for the Thanksgiving break as illness forced administrators to cancel school for Tuesday.
Martin County Schools Superintendent Larry James announced that all schools would be closed after attendance dropped to 68% Monday due to widespread flu, RSV and COVID-19.
“Anything below an 82% attendance rate is a matter of concern and typically forces a closure of our schools,” James said. “Eden Elementary had the highest number of students out sick, with only 49% of children in the classroom.”
James had hoped to keep schools in session through the first two days of this week, with the Thanksgiving break scheduled to start Wednesday.
“We were hoping to keep our attendance rate at least in the mid-80s through Tuesday, especially since our elementary schools had several Thanksgiving events and activities planned,” said James. “After receiving reports of more positive diagnoses of flu and RSV among our students and staff, as well as other stomach ailments, chest infections and viruses, we had no choice but to cancel.”
James said he was aware of parent concern about sending students to school with the viruses spreading. However, he said students who are not sick and do not have a medical excuse for missing must attend school.
“The best thing we can do to help prevent the spread of germs is to educate the kids to sneeze and cough into the bend of their elbow, not to drink or eat after one another, to stay in their own space and limit contact, and to wash their hands often,” said James. “It’s also a good idea to supply them with anti-bacterial hand wipes to clean surfaces such as their desks and chairs.”
The superintendent is encouraging parents to make sure their children are up to date on all recommended vaccinations, including the flu shot, COVID-19 shot and boosters.
James hopes the six-day break from school will give students time to recuperate and staff time to disinfect schools and buses thoroughly.
“I want to wish all our students and their families a happy Thanksgiving. We look forward to seeing you back in the classroom on Monday,” said James. “Feel better soon.”