From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
ASHVILLE — The St. Clair County School system has suspended its meal program because of the inability to maintain a safe distance during the preparation and distribution of food.
In a Facebook post, the school system said the decision was not made lightly. Superintendent Mike Howard said after a couple more students tested positive for coronavirus, he knew there was nothing more important than keeping everyone in the school district safe.
“The safety of our staff and volunteers are our priority during these times,” the school system posted on Facebook. “We have been in contact with an organization to continue food service; however, at this moment, we do not have confirmation.”
Howard said the school system is in talks with the Alabama Food Bank Association, but the volume of meals needed is something he is concerned about.
“We were hoping that a non-profit could continue that but we are serving 35,000 meals,” said Howard.
Howard hopes the school can restart the program after the peak of the coronavirus has passed. The school system said parents would be notified if changes were made.