By Thomas Sellers Jr.
On Monday morning, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee issued a statement regarding schools statewide as the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic in the United States.
Last week local school systems started to enforce closures to coincide with Spring Breaks as a chance to clean schools and set up procedures to prevent the spread of the disease.
“As the response to COVID-19 evolves, I urge every school district in Tennessee to close as soon as practically possible, with all schools expected to close by Friday, March 20, 2020 at the latest,” Lee said. “Schools should remain closed through March 31 to further mitigate the spread of this infectious disease and we will issue further guidance prior to March 31.
“Superintendents and local leadership have the full support of my administration to determine effective dates for closure this week as they evaluate what is best for families within their respective districts,” he continued. “We understand the tremendous burden school closure places on families and we will continue to work with both the federal government and school districts to ensure we continue essential supports like meals for students in need. Every Tennessean has a role to play in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and I urge Tennesseans to be quick to help neighbors as new needs surface with the closure of schools.”
Millington made it official of it’s closure last Friday afternoon in conjunction with other area municipal school systems.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is rapidly evolving, and we have been closely monitoring the situation. After serious and considerable deliberation and input from many stakeholders, the six municipal Shelby County superintendents in Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Lakeland, and Millington have made the collective decision to cancel classes, extracurricular activities, and sporting events through the week following Spring Break.”
School closures are also on the collegiate level with all the colleges and universities instituting online classes and closing the campus. The University of Memphis is continuing to coordinate with local, state and federal entities regarding coronavirus.
“Many steps are being taken to reduce risk and limit coronavirus exposure to protect the health and safety of our community. To be clear, there are no confirmed cases on our campuses. As confirmed by the Tennessee Department of Health, however, there are cases in the broader Memphis community and throughout Tennessee.”
Consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation to minimize large gatherings, the UofM is postponing, canceling or reconfiguring University-sponsored events. In compliance with this policy, all scheduled University of Memphis Office of Advancement events, including U of M Alumni Association events and chapter meetings, are being postponed until further notice. Any questions regarding effected events can be directed to [email protected].
“We believe the steps the University is taking are consistent with current local, state and federal health guidance and will help reduce risks and protect our community. The safety and security of our community is our top priority.
We appreciate your patience and support.”
Businesses are also changing policies and hours to help get a grasp on any potential outbreak. Starting March 15 for Millington Walmart’s operations hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. temporarily. All area Chick-Fil-A have closed the dining areas.
For further updates on closures and policies regarding the coronavirus, visit www.millington-news.com or visit The Mllington Star Newspaper on Facebook.
