All public schools across the territory are closed Tuesday as Tropical Storm Ernesto approaches, the V.I. Education Department reported in a post on Facebook just after 6 a.m., and parents and guardians are asked to keep their children at home. However, all faculty and staff are required to report to their respective work locations, it said.
According to the announcement, employees are to focus on securing their work stations, schools and resources to protect against potential weather-related impacts such as rain. “It is critical that all areas are carefully protected,” it said.
“After securing the premises, employees will receive further instructions regarding work operations. Please be advised that all employees must report to their offices and schools before any dismissal directives are given,” the release stated.
“Employees residing on the island of St. John are to report to the Julius E. Sprauve School to assist with securing the school,” it said.
“As the territory prepares for Tropical Storm Ernesto, the Virgin Islands Department of Education urges all stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, parents, and guardians to closely monitor the storm’s developments and stay tuned to official informational channels for updates,” the release stated.
As of 7 a.m. Tuesday, Ernesto was expected to start impacting the region in the late afternoon or evening, with up to six inches of rain forecast. Flooding is possible, as well as mudslides. Follow the National Hurricane Center for the latest tropical updates.
