Portage closes elementary school amid COVID outbreak

Lake Center Elementary School closed and moved classes entirely online on Monday after a person with COVID-19 potentially exposed people in six different classrooms.

The district announced that 123 students and four staff are potentially exposed to the virus and must quarantine immediately.

“While we have successfully put a number of safety practices in place, we feel this move is needed to reduce the possibility of further spread,” said Superintendent Mark Bielang in a letter to parents.

Remote classes don’t begin immediately. Teachers are taking Monday and Tuesday to prepare for virtual lessons. Officials anticipate Lake Center will be able to reopen November 9.

Portage Public Schools is one of a few districts in Kalamazoo County that are holding face-to-face classes. All secondary students take classes online, but elementary students have the option to attend school in person.

You can read more on MLive.