Paris, Tenn.–Henry County Director of Schools Dr. Leah Watkins has provided additional background information on the decision by school officials to close the schools in the district from Monday, March 16, through March 27.
In a letter to parents and the public, she said that school officials were made aware on Saturday of the potential exposure of an employee to the Coronavirus. She noted the employee does not exhibit symptoms, but was instructed to self-quarantine. She said further the State Department of Health assures officials that it is ‘highly unlikely’ the employee contracted the virus or created risk.
Additionally, she announced that free breakfasts and lunches will still be available to students while school is closed and she provided a scheduled for the meals. The meals are to be picked up, not eaten at school.
Dr. Watkins also provided a schedule by which students can pick up needed items from the school.
The following is the letter sent by Dr. Watkins, with the meal and pick-up schedules:
Saturday, March 14th, our priority was to notify the community of school closing in an attempt to allow parents as much notice to make arrangements for childcare. I would like to share further information regarding the decision to initiate an extended closure and our plans to provide needed services to our students.
Saturday afternoon, HCSS administration became aware of the potential exposure of an employee to the COVID-19 virus. Though the employee does not exhibit any symptoms, the employee was instructed to self-quarantine for a period of time. We have been assured by the Tennessee Department of Health that it is highly unlikely the employee has contracted the virus or created risk within the associated schools accessed by the employee (Grove and Henry). As a result of this possible exposure and unknown potential exposures by others as the pandemic develops, the abundantly cautious decision to close schools was made in order to reduce the interactions between all individuals within our system. In this time of uncertainty, we want to responsibly act on the side of thoughtfulness for our community. With over 3400 students, faculty, and staff, we
hope our closing helps to minimize the potential impact of the virus to Henry County and surrounding areas.
Our teachers have prepared learning activities to continue supporting the outstanding instruction essential for our students.
Parents and students are invited to retrieve any necessary personal items (including medications from the school nurse, backpacks, or instructional resources) that would be needed through the extended closure.
On Monday, March 16th, Principals, Assistant Principals, and School Resource Officers will be on hand to assist parents in the pickup of any needed items.
Schedule of Campus Availability for Pickup of Medication & Materials (Monday, March 16th)
School Campus Medication & Instructional Materials Retrieval
Harrelson
7:00 – 9:00 am
3:00 – 5:00 pm
Henry Elementary
7:00 – 9:00 am
3:00 – 5:00 pm
Lakewood
7:00 – 9:00 am
3:00 – 5:00 pm
Grove
8:00 – 10:00 am
4:00 – 6:00 pm
Henry County High School
8:00 – 10:00 am
4:00 – 6:00 pm
Upon conclusion of this access window, we will initiate deep cleaning and sterilization on our campuses. Our goal is to return to normal school routines as soon as possible following the extended closure. We will continue to monitor the situation and strive to make decisions in conjunction with Emergency Management and State Health Officials.
The Henry County School System will provide free breakfast and lunch to students daily Monday, March 16th through Friday, March 27th, regardless of income eligibility. This will be pick-up service, not an opportunity to dine at school. Federal guidelines do require the presence of the student intended to receive the meal. All students are eligible for this free service and do not have to report to their assigned schools, but may pick up a meal at the school location most convenient.
Meal Services Schedule for Students
School Campus & Location Breakfast Pick-Up Lunch Pick-Up
Harrelson
Front Parking Lot
7:30-8:00 12:00-12:30
Henry
Front Parking Lot
7:30-8:00 12:00-12:30
Lakewood
Front Parking Lot
7:30-8:00 12:00-12:30
Grove
Main Office Parking Lot
7:30-8:00 12:00-12:30
Henry County High School
Tennis Court Parking Lot
7:30-8:00 12:00-12:30
Updates will be available on the HCSS website www.henryk12.net and the official Henry County social media sites.
We know what a challenge an extended closure can create for students and families and appreciate your patience as we all strive to make the best decisions for our students and community. We encourage you to use this time to allow for social distancing as you are able.