Scotch Plains-Fanwood Schools To Close To Prepare For Coronavirus

SCOTCH PLAINS/FANWOOD, NJ — Scotch Plains-Fanwood Regional Schools will close on Wednesday to prepare for any potential future impact of the new coronavirus.

"This closure is planned to allow staff members to prepare for the possibility that the NJ Department of Health recommends that the District closes due to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns," Superintendent Dr. Joan V. Mast said.

An unused snow day will be used to cover this day off. On Wednesday staff will use the day to come up with a plan to be able to continue education at home in the event of a health-related school closure.

Despite the closure, afterschool clubs and sports will continue as scheduled on Wednesday.

"At this time there are no plans to cancel school activities and events, such as theater productions, concerts, field trips, etc. However, we will continue to consider the potential risks associated with all of our planned activities on a case-by-case basis within the context of information available as the situation continues to unfold," Mast said.

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As of Tuesday, the first death of a new coronavirus patient was reported in New Jersey. The fatality was among four new cases identified Tuesday, raising the state's total to 15. (See Related: First NJ Coronavirus Death; Total Cases Rise To 15: Governor)

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