LINCOLN COUNTY, Mo. – The Silex and Elsberry school districts have announced closures from March 23 until April 3, including all extracurricular activities and facility usage.

Both districts indicated the decision was made following a meeting this morning (Monday, March 16) with the Lincoln County Health Department regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). The schools are closed this week for the regularly scheduled spring breaks. Both districts have issued letters to families and staff regarding the closure.

According to the letters from both districts, the decision was made in the best interest of students, staff and the community.

“As you know, the safety and security of our students and staff are a top priority, and we feel that these measures are necessary. We are a learning institution, and providing education to every child in our district is also at the top of our list. We recognize the hardship this places on families and will do our best to provide structure, learning and community support through this time of uncertainty." 

Both Elsberry Superintendent Tim Reller and Silex Superintendent David Deets acknowledged there will be many questions about the next steps, schedules and support. Each indicated their administrative teams are working diligently to prepare and move forward in the best way possible.

“As we continue to plan, information will be forthcoming. We are working on at-home activities and the processes available to put these in the hands of each student,” their letters stated. “In addition to the alternative methods of instruction, the district is working on ways to make take-out meals available.”

The districts urged parents and guardians to practice social distancing, remain at home, use good hand-washing and respiratory hygiene.

Contact the Lincoln County Health Department with questions or concerns specifically related to COVID-19.