Godley ISD will shut down for the week due to local flu epidemic
GODLEY, Texas — Flu cases are surging in local schools and hospitals, prompting one school district to close for the rest of the week.
Godley ISD announced on Tuesday that it would shut down through the end of the week, reopening on February 3, due to widespread absences among students and staff.
The district, which serves around 3,000 students, reported nearly 650 student absences on Tuesday. As the day went on, even more students were sent home sick.
Staffing shortages also contributed to the closure. Over 60 staff members, including teachers, were absent, making it impossible for the district to “safely and effectively” manage classes and other duties, according to a statement from the district.
Varsity athletic games and extracurricular activities will be decided on a case-by-case basis by coaches and sponsors, the district said.
Godley ISD isn’t alone in facing a flu surge. Cook Children’s Hospital reported over 900 positive flu cases at its Fort Worth and Prosper locations. On Monday alone, the hospital’s emergency department saw 696 patients—nearly double the average of 379.
While the district is closed, GISD encouraged families to take this time to rest and recover. At the same time, staff will conduct a deep cleaning and sanitizing of schools, classrooms, and buses.