In a letter to parents, officials with the Diocesan Office of Education announced Friday spring break for students at schools through the diocese, including St. Aloysius and St. Francis Xavier, will be extended.

Students will return to school Wednesday, March 18. This is in response to the threat posed by the spread of the coronavirus.

“Throughout spring break, our Diocesan Office of Education, as well as your local schools, have been closely monitoring the current public health situation regarding coronavirus,” Catherine Cook, superintendent of education, wrote in the letter. “As the number of cases in the United States has grown, and with the first diagnosed cases in our state earlier this week, we have decided to take the following precautions to help ensure the safety and well-being of all of our community members.”

In the letter, the diocese said “all students, parents and employees who traveled internationally or went on a cruise during spring break, or who had an in-the-home family member who did, should refrain from coming to school for the recommended 14-day period, starting the day of their return to the U.S.”

Officials also asked those students, parents and employees who traveled domestically, particularly to those areas with significant numbers of confirmed cases, including California, Colorado, Washington and New York, are also asked to observe the recommended 14-day waiting period before returning to school.

Those members of the school’s faculty and staff, who do not meet either of those exceptions, will return Monday, March 16.

“Moving forward, our office, as well as your local school administration, will continue to monitor the situation and be in contact with local officials and experts in your communities,” Cook added. “Should it be determined that additional precautions or closures need to take place, your principal will send you notifications outlining the continuing plan of action.”

In closing, Cook encouraged families to continue to implement recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization, the Mississippi Department of Health.

The extended spring break also includes the cancellation or postponement of a number of St. Aloysius athletic events.

The sporting events impacted by extended break include: