LPSS releases statement on rising numbers, school closures

Dear LPSS School Community,
In the past week, LPSS has made the decision to transition to virtual learning at two of our high schools -
Southside High School and David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy. Decisions to close classes,
schools, or to limit particular activities are not made lightly. While educating students is our main priority,
we must also consider the health and safety of students and staff. Each decision is made based on
variables that are unique to each school, each activity, and to COVID-19 spread within our communities at
any given time. All of these factors are ever-changing and impact decisions daily.
Regretfully, decisions cannot be made with a one-size-fits-all approach, rather they are made on a case-
by-case basis. Many factors need to be considered, and we must rely on the most recent data when
making these informed decisions. Factors include the number of positive COVID-19 cases, in addition to
the number of quarantined students and staff on a campus. We also consider aspects of operations,
health, safety, and academics. We recognize our responsibility to the community to mitigate the spread of
the virus and the far-reaching impacts that these decisions have on our families.
As school systems across the nation are closing schools, our ultimate goal is to keep our students in
classrooms and in front of their teachers to prepare them for future success. Currently, we are seeing an
uptick on high school campuses, where older students are more independent and active, especially with
outside activities where mitigation measures are not practiced. We want to give our students the
opportunity to participate in activities when possible. However, decisions on school-related activities are
made on an individual basis, and we must remain proactive and be mindful of limiting activities and
exposure when possible. While decisions may not be popular, they are made with much consideration,
deliberation, and in collaboration with state officials and health authorities. It is our students who will suffer
long-lasting consequences if we are forced to close schools for extended periods of time.
Collectively, we can make a positive impact on students by coming together, doing our part, and practicing
mitigation efforts that slow the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to wear masks, limit large gatherings,
wash hands, and practice social distancing. These combined efforts, while they may seem small, are
significant.