HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Chesterfield, Henrico, Hanover, and Richmond school have now closed for two weeks starting Monday, March 16 due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus).
"These are unprecedented times. Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures," a Chesterfield Schools spokesperson posted on Facebook. "With the Governor’s declared state of emergency due to COVID-19 and today’s regional guidance that there are no large gatherings of more than 250 people at one place at one time, we are taking the unprecedented step of closing schools due to public health concerns."
"Henrico County Public Schools will be closed for students for two full weeks of school (through Friday, March 27)," a Henrico Spokesperson wrote in a email. "We will continue to assess the situation, and decide later if we need to extend this period of closure. You will be notified as soon as possible of all changes."
For many public schools in Central Virginia, Spring Break is scheduled to begin Monday, April 6.
"We realize this creates many questions about our work, and how students will continue their learning. A thorough plan is in place, and detailed information will be communicated soon," the email continued.
Monday, March 16, will be considered a workday for all Henrico County employees. Staff members are expected to report to their schools/offices on Monday, March 16, for planning, training and other logistical items prior to closure.
Chesterfield
Chesterfield County Public Schools closed to students Friday as the school system prepares for the possibility of a loss of instruction time due the spread of the coronavirus.
Colonial Heights
Colonial Heights Public Schools announced Monday, March 16 will be a student holiday so teachers can prepare for the possibility of online classes due the spread of the coronavirus.
Hopewell
Hopewell will close school Monday, March 16 to allow teachers and staff prepare packets of work in the event it becomes necessary to close schools for a prolonged period of time.
Powhatan
Starting Monday, March 16, Powhatan County Public Schools will be closed for students for two full weeks (through Friday, March 27).
This is a developing story.