Evergreen district cancels group events through April 3Free

Evergreen Public Schools, Clark County’s largest school district, is suspending all group events due to the ongoing spread of the new coronavirus.

The decision is effective immediately, and runs through the end of spring break on April 3.

The cancellations apply to all:

• School concerts and performances.

• Middle school girls basketball games.

• School assemblies.

• Schoolwide events like Parent Teacher Association or booster club meetings.

• Dances.

• Volunteers working within schools.

• Field trips.

• State drama and dance competitions.

• Professional staff development that requires substitutes.

The district has not made a decision about sports games and meets. Practices, however, may continue.

The news comes after Gov. Jay Inslee announced the emergency closure of all public and private schools in King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties from March 17 to April 24.

There is still only one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Clark County, and no presumptive cases associated with the school district. Spokeswoman Gail Spolar said the district is following guidance by state and local health officials, as well as the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, as it weighs the future possibility of limiting school access, including canceling all classes.

“We’re taking it, quite frankly right now, hour by hour,” Spolar said.

Evergreen is Clark County’s largest school district and one of the largest in the state, with about 25,000 students. Vancouver Public Schools is close behind with about 23,500 students, but has not made a similar decision.