All Jackson Public Schools will shift to virtual learning on Tuesday due to the citywide water crisis and remain virtual indefinitely, according to the Jackson Public Schools website.
Also, late Monday evening, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Lumumba declared a state of emergency in Jackson due to the failing water system in which residences and businesses are experiencing low water pressure and have been under a boil water notice for a month.
“Due to complications from the Pearl River flooding, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba is declaring a water system emergency as water pressure issues at the O.B. Curtis Water Plant are resulting in low or no water pressure for many Jackson customers,” the city said in a statement announcing the state of emergency. “The water shortage is likely to last the next couple of days.
“Contrary to some reports, the City is NOT cutting off water to residents.
“The City remains in contact with the state Department of Health and the EPA over continued issues with the system. Residents are advised to call the City’s 311 line for additional information. The City will resume water distribution and update the media on times and locations.”
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Read this:Mayor Lumumba Holds Press Conference Regarding Jackson’s Water and Flooding Issues
Also, late Monday Gov. Tate Reeves held a press conference.
“Providing an emergency briefing tonight at 7:00 PM, alongside our Department of Health and Emergency Management Agency, on today’s failure of our state capital’s water system and the resources that the state is mobilizing to respond. Watch on Facebook or local news,” Reeves wrote on his Facebook page.
The Jackson Public Schools said food will be served and distant learning devices are available for families who need them.
“There will not be in-person learning,” a post on the JPS website Monday night states. “Families without devices can pick them up tomorrow at each of our schools from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
“We also will serve breakfast at each school site from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Locations will be announced tomorrow morning after schools are accessed for suitable water pressure for meal preparation. “
JPS said it will monitor the situation on a day-by-day basis at schools while conferring with city officials to determine when scholars and staff can safely return for in-person learning.
