NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) are closed Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13 amid concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.
MNPS says this decision was made in consultation with the Metro Public Health Department ahead of the district's spring break. Symptoms of staff and students who have stayed home from work or school have been monitored by MNPS school nurses. No students, faculty or staff have tested positive for COVID-19, and this closure is just as a precaution.
"While there is no immediate threat to Metro Nashville Public Schools, I understand this is a quickly evolving situation, and closing for the rest of the week and through spring break will give us time to properly plan and evaluate what is in the best interest going forward," said interim Director of Schools Dr. Adrienne Battle. "Our teams will be using the next several days to develop contingency plans and safety precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of all of our staff and students."
Before- and after-care programs will also be closed, while all after-school activities will be canceled. This includes sports practices, games (excepting TSSAA tournament games), performances and parent meetings.
YMCA Fun Company will operate inclement weather sites at the following schools:
- Hattie Cotton - 1033 W. Greenwood Ave.
- Harpeth Valley - 2840 Learning Ln.
- Norman Binkley - 4700 W. Longdale Dr.
- KIPP Antioch - 3655 Murfreesboro Pike
- Tulip Grove - 441 Tyler Drive
District offices will be open, and 12-month central office employees are asked to report to work unless they are notified otherwise. MNPS says they will continue to be in close consultation with the Metro Public Health Department, mayor's office and Tennessee Department of Education about how best to approach the weeks ahead.
