Seaside Beach, popular Florida spring break destination for Kirkwood families and students, will close to the public March 16 at 5 p.m. Many people have continued their vacation plans even with strong recommendations against travel and social events. Celebrities such as Ariana Grande are making calls for youth to remain inside and practice social distancing even if they are not as susceptible to COVID-19. President Trump also released national guidelines Monday recommending no gatherings of 10 or more people. Some KHS students are booking early flights home from their travel destinations or cancelling trips completely. 

Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) announced Monday morning that Class 4 and 5 basketball semifinals and championships are canceled. Kirkwood girls’ varsity will no longer play Blue Springs in the semifinals on Friday, March 20.

Track practice will resume April 6, head track coach Roberta McWoods announced with Corey Nesslage, athletics director, in a text sent to all track athletes Monday morning. However, according to a statement released by MSHSAA, all games and practices are canceled as long as school is closed. MSHSAA does not currently plan to cancel spring sport championships. They may be pushed back into June as post-season championships. 

Dr. Michele Condon, KSD Superintendent, sent an all-staff email Monday afternoon regarding building access, instruction and support. Staff will be allowed to pick up personal items during the day Tuesday, March 17, but there will be no building access after 3 p.m. In the email, Dr. Condon provided a link to Kirkwood’s COVID-19 website. She also attached a form for organizations and individuals to fill out if they would like to assist students and families in need. The district is still coordinating how to help families whose children qualify for free and reduced lunch. Dr. Condon also provided a spreadsheet with outlines for K-5 online schooling.

Local businesses and stores are also taking steps to limit the effects of coronavirus in the community. According to Amigos Cantina’s Twitter, they will still be offering dine-in service with accommodations to social distancing recommendations. Grocery stores such as Dierbergs and Target are placing limitations on cleaning, sanitary and grocery items in customer orders. Schnucks is also no longer offering in-store samples.

TKC will cover any new updates as information is released.