NEOGA, Ill. (WCIA) — Following the tornado damage to multiple on-campus buildings, all Neoga Community Unit School District #3 schools will be closed from March 17-21.

In an update from Superintendent of Schools Kevin Haarman, he said that based on preliminary assessments, the extent of the storm damage will require a thorough evaluation and repair process. Haarman is announcing the closure of all the schools in the district to ensure the safety of students and staff.

During the closure, the district aims to complete a comprehensive damage assessment, immediate mitigation and repair efforts and the development of a long-term plan for resuming student instruction. Additionally, the athletic director has been asked to coordinate with coaches at the schools to continue the athletic programs at off-campus locations to the greatest extent possible.

Haarman also noted the following response efforts that are currently underway:

• Insurance adjuster is evaluating the damage for coverage purposes.
• District architect is assessing structural damage and guiding plans for a safe return.
• Regional Superintendent has visited the site and will continue to provide guidance.
• Structural engineer is inspecting the integrity of the damaged buildings.
• County Emergency Management Agency is conducting local response efforts.
• City Police and Illinois State Police have established a perimeter around the campus, in which the district is taking a closed campus posture.
• Emergency roofing and construction crews, and water mitigation teams are addressing repairs and mitigating future impacts.
• Environmental hazard agent is evaluating potential hazards.
• NOAA Weather Service is providing storm data and forecasts to inform the district’s planning.

“Our top priority remains the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families as we navigate this challenging situation,” Haarman said. “We will provide further updates as more information becomes available, including any adjustments to the school calendar or instructional plans.”

In addition to the closure of the schools, an emergency board meeting has been scheduled by the Neoga Board President for March 16 at 6 p.m. at the Neoga Community Center. The meeting will aim to update the Board, school families and the rest of the community on the status of the district’s facilities.

Haarman will also seek emergency authorization, as required by state statute, to continue emergency repairs. The meeting will also serve as the next opportunity for updates to the public from the school district. Public attendance to the meeting is encouraged.

The campus closure means that the school campus is closed to all non-essential personnel in order to allow response teams to work safely and efficiently. School families are urged to continuously check their emails and the district’s official communication channels for the latest information.