Mesa County School District 51 just announced all schools will be closed through April 10, 2020.

Earlier this afternoon, Monday, March 16, the district released the following statement:

After much deliberation, consultation with health experts, and discussion of how best to address the many needs of our 22,000 students and 2,800 staff members during a large-scale shutdown, D51 leadership has made the difficult decision to close all of our schools and buildings through April 10. This was not an easy decision, and we know it will be hard for many families, but feel that it is in the best interest of our entire community. Allowing for social distance during this time will help flatten the curve on COVID-19 cases in our community and help prevent our health care facilities from being overwhelmed.

The release further states officials may close schools and buildings even longer. You are asked to monitor the district's official webpage for further updates.

In addition, all district buildings, including schools and administrative offices, will be closed to the public on March 18 through April 10, 2020. If you have any district-specific questions, please call 970-254-5100. For COVID-19 questions, you are asked to contact the Mesa County Health Department at 970-683-2300.

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