LIST: Multiple Big Country schools close as students, staff face illness

BIG COUNTRY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Many Big Country schools have dealt with illness, with several closing for a day or two to disinfect. Today, more schools have announced closures for Friday, January 31.

While the school districts have not disclosed the specific illness affecting students, local medical professionals have reported numerous cases of Influenza A.

Due to widespread illness, the Early, Rising Star, Anson, Trent, Hawley, and Colorado Independent schools districts will be closed on Friday, January 31, 2025. Take a look below to see more about each district.

Anson ISD

Anson students will return to class on Tuesday, February 4, following the teacher workday on Monday.

“We have some sickness going around, and it is affecting our learning,” Anson ISD Superintendent Troy Hinds shared. “Let’s all make efforts to take care of ourselves and see if we can get this stuff out and gone. Thank you!”

Colorado ISD

Colorado ISD students will return to class on Monday, February 3.

“During this time, our custodial team will deep clean and disinfect all buildings, classrooms, and any shared spaces to help ensure a healthier environment when we return. We understand that unexpected closures can be challenging, and appreciate your patience and support as we prioritize everyone’s well-being,” Colorado ISD shared online.

Early ISD

Despite the cancellation of classes and junior varsity games on Friday, the varsity basketball games scheduled for Friday evening will still take place. Superintendent Dr. Joan E. Otten announced that attendance will be limited to “only parents and direct relatives of players.”

Early ISD students will return to class on Monday, February 3.

Hawley ISD

Hawley ISD canceled school on Thursday and Friday, with classes set to resume on Monday, February 3.

“We have over 120 students out, and we are sending them home right and left. We also have a good percentage of our staff who are out,” Hawley ISD shared online.

School administrators hope this four-day break will give ill staff and students time to recover while also allowing those exposed to show symptoms, all without risking further exposure to others.

School officials understand the frustration of encouraging attendance while requesting that students who are ill stay home. They are urging parents to keep their kids home if they are sick.

“If you or your child is ill on Monday, please do not send them to school. That will defeat the purpose of our closing,” Hawley ISD shared. “I know it is frustrating. We fuss at you about attendance and then tell you to keep them at home when they are sick, but we really need to reduce exposure. Please take this time to wash backpacks, coats, hats, gloves, and anything your child brings on a daily basis.”

As of now, the district high school games on Friday are still set to proceed as scheduled.

Rising Star ISD

Superintendent Monty James and the administrative team decided to cancel school on Friday. Rising Star ISD students will return to class on Monday, February 3.

“This decision was not made hastily; however, with the number of students already absent combined with the continuous exit from school by students who are becoming ill; it is in the district’s best interest to clean and disinfect the school tomorrow,” James shared.

Trent ISD

Trent ISD students will return to class on Monday, February 3.