Richmond County students are switching out their masks and backpacks for pajamas starting Monday.

The school board decided to close schools Nov. 12, citing an increase in COVID activity at the campuses, transportation department and the central office.

The system will close Nov. 23-27 for the scheduled Thanksgiving break, and all schools will reopen for face-to-face instruction Nov. 30.

This change will not affect students who are already participating in virtual learning, according to the post.

Due to a recent increase in COVID-19 related activity in the RCSS Central Office, Transportation, and several schools,...

Posted by Richmond County School System on Thursday, November 12, 2020

The superintendent, Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, sent a letter to parents and students to reassure them.

“We are committed to ensure the safest environment for our students and staff,” he said in a letter sent to parents and students Nov. 12.

Bradshaw also said the school board will work with local officials to ensure that recommendations are followed to clean and disinfect the school facility and “act in the best interest of our students, teachers and staff."