Area Schools Extend Closure Amid Coronavirus Scare

SAN ANGELO, TX – Grape Creek ISD joins the list of Texas schools that have decided to extend their spring break recess for another week in response to the public health concerns.

In a statement posted on their website Superintendent, Angie Smetana informed GCISD of the district’s decision to take this preventive measure.
Surrounding school districts have opted to undertake similar measures and will also be extending their spring break including:

Bangs, Blanket, Brady, Brookesmith, Brownwood, Coleman, Christoval, Early, Junction, May, Paint Rock, Santa Anna, Veribest, Wall, and Zephyr. These school districts will extend spring break for students through at least March 22, 2020.

The following districts have indicated that at this time they are planning to resume normal day to day activities and will have hosts classes on March 16:
Ballinger ISD, Eden, Menard, Robert Lee, Sonora, Sterling City ISD, Water Valley, and Winters.

All school districts recognize this is an evolving situation and will continue to make decisions they consider to be in the best interest of their students, staff, and community.

Full statement from Grape Creek ISD:

“Dear Grape Creek ISD Parents/Guardian, staff, and community,
Keeping our students, staff, and community safe is the top priority for Grape Creek ISD. We have been diligently working with health, and education officials and staying well informed about the changes and updates pertaining to the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

As of this morning, there have not been any substantiated reports of COVID-19 within Tom Green County, or our community. After participating in a conference call with officials this morning, GCISD has made the decision to close school for the coming week (March 16th through March 20th) as a preventive measure. Our custodial staff has been and continues to work tirelessly to intensively clean our facilities to ensure our students, staff, and visitors are safe as possible when we return to a normal schedule.

GCISD administrators and directors are meeting Monday morning to plan for instruction and services for our students and will send all information out to parents/guardians as soon as possible.
We will continue to keep you up-to-date, please check the school website at Grapecreekisd.net for information and updates.

Thank you for your support, patience, and understanding,

Sincerely, 
Angie Smetana”