All schools in New Boston Independent School District will be closed today for staff to clean the campuses following an increase in staff and student illnesses.
Superintendent Dr. Rose Mary Neshyba said closing the schools will give them an opportunity to deep clean everything with hopes of reducing the spread of both the flu and stomach viruses that have been going around the campuses for about two weeks now.
"We've been watching the patterns (of attendance)," she said. "One campus would be up to 96 percent, with another dropping below 90 the same day."
Of the 400 students enrolled at New Boston High School, Thursday's attendance showed 45 missing school, with additional students checking out after roll was taken.
They've been disinfecting every night with Clorox wipes, but it didn't seem to be enough, she said. Having the students out of the classrooms for four days will give staff the opportunity to deep clean everything and provide a healthier environment, Neshyba added.
"This will also give students an extended time at home to get well," she said.
Students were already scheduled to be out Monday for a teacher professional development day. Administrators will also continue to monitor attendance once students return to determine if additional steps should be taken to eliminate the illnesses.