Gov. closes schools, bans large events

VW independent staff/submitted information

COLUMBUS — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced that, due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, he has ordered that all kindergarten through 12th grade schools close for a period of several weeks.  

Beginning at the conclusion of the school day on Monday, March 16, all K-12 schools will close to students through Friday, April 3. This order includes all public, community, and private K-12 schools in the state, but does not apply to Ohio’s childcare system, such as daycare centers and home-based childcare providers.

During this extended period of closure, schools should work to provide education through alternative means and school district leadership may make decisions on whether to use their school buildings. Staff members should continue to report to school as directed by administrators.

“We want to thank educators and administrators for the extraordinary efforts they will take to continue offering services during this time of national crisis,” said Governor DeWine. 

Over the next 72 hours, the Ohio Department of Education will develop guidance for K-12 schools to ensure the continuity of important student services, including a strategy for providing meals.

All gatherings over 100 people are also being banned, which will affect school tournaments, entertainment venues, and other events.

Locally, the Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation Board of Trustees and staff presenting Van Wert Live events have announced that the Niswonger Performing Arts Center will temporarily close until April 6 due to the State of Ohio ban on public performances. 

Broadway’s Finding Neverland scheduled for this Saturday, March 14, is canceled. Patrons will be fully refunded for Broadway’s Finding Neverland ticket purchase(s) by a company check to arrive by mail. 

The “I Am, He Said” concert on March 21 is now rescheduled for Sunday, June 14. All tickets currently sold for “I Am, He Said” will be honored. 

“We greatly value our patrons and their safety,” said VWAPAF Executive Director Tafi Stober. “Please stay tuned to future updates through the NPAC Facebook page and email communications. More than ever, the future of entertainment in Van Wert is eagerly anticipated.”

YWCA President/CEO Kimberly Laudick said tonight’s Women of Achievement Banquet is still on, but urged area residents who have health issues to stay home for added safety.

Also, the Area Agency on Aging 3 is also urging older adults, people with compromised immune systems, and those considered to be in a fragile state to stay at home during this time.

With the spread of the COVID-19 virus and the announcements from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, AAA3 has suspended distribution of the Senior Farmers’ Market applications indefinitely, along with suspending the DISH Program (Senior Dining Program), and all Health Education classes effective Monday, March 16, 2020.