Schools in Northfield, Linwood and Somers Point will close for two weeks beginning Monday, in light of growing concerns over the novel strain of coronavirus."Even though, at this time, there are no confirmed cases in Atlantic County, we are acting with an abundance of caution to address the spread of COVID-19 and to help protect and support our students, families and communities during this national emergency," reads the letter signed by the heads of the Northfield, Linwood and Somers Point school districts, along with Mainland Regional and CharterTech high schools.Students will be out of school 14 calendar days, beginning Monday.They are set to return March 31.Parents are advised to check with their specific districts' websites, social media feeds and community outreach platforms for additional details.School will continue virtually, so that the days count toward the 180-day requirement.For example, Mainland Regional students will attend school virtually through Microsoft TEAMS, part each students' Microsoft Office 365 account.Through this, teachers will take attendance and provide direction in accessing assignments.CLICK HERE to learn more.On Friday, Gov. Phil Murphy said all schools would eventually close as a result of the virus, which has now been confirmed in 50 people, although a county breakdown shows 47 confirmed, with three more pending. "It's a when, not an if," he said.Several local school districts have teachers working on 30-day plans in preparation for long-term closure.
