SANTA MONICA (CNS) - All classes will be canceled today and Monday at Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District campuses out of “an abundance of caution,” due to a parent possibly having been exposed to coronavirus.
“We are taking this action to thoroughly clean our schools and evaluate the state of illness in our communities in order to make an informed decision for Tuesday into next week,” District Superintendent Ben Drati said. “We are aware of a community member with children in our schools who was exposed to coronavirus.
“We have noticed a higher than normal absentee rate on our campuses today (Thursday) and will take this time to determine if students are ill, with what type of illness or if parents are keeping students home during the coronavirus pandemic,” Drati said. “This allows us time to consult with our local agencies and consider the status of this health emergency in L.A. County and the communities we serve. Staff and teachers will prepare for possible school closures next week.”
The district runs 10 elementary schools, two middle schools, three high schools, an adult high school, and an alternative school. Although classes will be canceled, teachers and staff are still expected to report to work.