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Coronavirus threat halts Polk, District One until the end of March at least

FOOTHILLS—All North Carolina and South Carolina schools are closed beginning on Monday, with Polk County Schools closing for at least two weeks and District One Schools in Spartanburg County closed until after spring break, or April 6. 

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster made the announcements over the weekend. The states joined most of the country, as 33 states in the United States have now closed schools. 

Polk County School Superintendent Aaron Greene said Polk County will comply with the governor’s order and will be restricting any and all access to the schools by the public until further notice. 

Polk County and District One Schools allowed people to come retrieve necessary items on Monday, including school supplies and medications, but closed to the public following. 

“We know the closing of schools presents a significant challenge to many members of our community,” Greene said. “I would urge everyone to remain calm and to focus on working together to support each other. We will be working closely with county officials in the coming days to determine how Polk County Schools can best assist our children and families during this public health emergency.” 

Polk County is not recommended or required to provide instructional programs in the immediate future, per guidance from the state board of education. District One is conducting some online instruction. 

People can visit their school’s websites for more information. 

“I thank you for your patience and cooperation as we navigate this unprecedented situation,” Greene said. “I have always been inspired by our community and the willingness of our people to step up in times of need and help each other. I believe this is such a time.”

As of Monday morning there were no cases of Coronavirus confirmed in Polk County, and one in Greenville County. In total, there are 28 cases in South Carolina and 33 in North Carolina, not including  a recent one in Macon County being tagged in New York because the patient is from New York, but has been in Asheville and now in Macon County.

The first death in the two states was announced on Monday. A nursing home patient in Lexington County, S.C. died Monday from the virus.
Some area businesses are offering delivery, particularly restaurants. 

The Tryon Theatre closed temporarily after Gov. Cooper approved an executive order for gatherings of 50 or more people be prohibited. Most area churches were closed on Sunday because of the mandate. Gov. McMaster is asking for gatherings of 100 or more people to be canceled.