ST. LANDRY PARISH, La. (KLFY)- Eunice High School closed at the end of the day, Tuesday and will remain closed until next week after a rise in positive COVID-19 cases have been reported among staff members.

“We always consult with the Department of Health to determine a decision in a situation like this, ” St. Landry Parish Superintendent Patrick Jenkins says.

In a letter sent home to parents, Eunice High says they were made aware last week that one staff member had tested positive for COVID-19.

Since then, that number is up to five cases.

Jenkins says he made his decision to close the school out of an abundance of caution and to reduce the risk of a potential spread.

“There are potential cases possible in the parish, so we need to avoid any type of community spread.”

During the closure, staff or students will not be allowed in the school as the building will undergo deep cleaning.

While students are out of the classrooms, Superintendent Jenkins says lesson plans and schedules will still be followed. 

“We try to avoid closing schools if possible. If we can isolate the cases without closing, we will, but we have to determine if we can function as a school,” Jenkins said.

The school will resort back to on-line learning and assignments.

“The education does not stop. We will continue working virtually,” he said.