No announcement yet from Franklin, Southampton schools

STAFF REPORT

ISLE OF WIGHT

Isle of Wight County Schools announced to parents and staff on Tuesday at approximately 11:40 a.m. that all schools in the division will close Wednesday through Friday this week in anticipation of the arrival of Hurricane Florence.

According to Lynn Briggs, the division’s director of community and media relations, there will be no change in today’s schedule or after-school activities. However, Thursday night’s School Board meeting is cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

Twelve-month employees will be notified about their status on Wednesday. Any updates on school schedules for next week will be shared using the Connect 5 alert system. Information will also be posted on the division’s website and social media accounts, and forwarded to local newspapers and television stations.

Announcements on the opening of shelters at Smithfield Middle School and Windsor High School will be made by officials with Isle of Wight County. Information will be shared through their website and the IW Alert system. Questions may be directed to the Department of Emergency Services at 365-6308.

IWCS also advised families and staff members to take precautions now to ensure their safety both during and after the storm.

As of 11:55 a.m. on Tuesday, no announcement had been made from either Franklin City Public Schools or Southampton County Public Schools. However, The Tidewater News anticipates both divisions will make a decision this afternoon.