ALLENTOWN, Pa. - More than 16,000 students will be out of school following news that a sick employee is being tested for coronavirus.
In a letter posted to the Allentown School District website last night, Superintendent Thomas Parker said all schools would be closed for the rest of the week for a “thorough cleaning of facilities.
This follows news that a district staff member “who presented with symptoms” was being tested for COVID-19.
Parker noted that while there are no known or reported cases of coronavirus in the district, the closure is being done out of an abundance of caution, and to ensure the safety and wellness of students and staff.
Schools are currently slated to re-open on Monday, March 16th.
The superintendent said he remains in contact with the Allentown Health Department and state health officials, and that updates will be shared with the community as he learns more.
Host out (optional): The Allentown District is the latest in eastern Pennsylvania to close due to coronavirus concerns. Some schools in Delaware, Bucks and Montgomery counties have also been closed in the past week.