Parents weigh in on how local schools are responding to coronavirus concerns

School districts throughout the desert remain in session following concerns of coronavirus. Thursday morning, Gov. Gavin Newsom recommended cancelling gatherings of 250 people or more.

On Thursday Palm Springs Unified School District, Desert Sands Unified School District, and Coachella Valley Unified School District said outside gatherings were canceled. Events included field trips, outside athletic events, travel, training and outside performances.

The districts said they would continue holding performances and assemblies only among the individual school populations. No parents or families would be allowed inside. The schools notified families that they could consider live-streaming the events.

As of Thursday, classes remained in session.

"I have two in high school, one in middle school, and one in elementary school," parent Vanessa Miranda said.

Schools have continued to inform parents and faculty through emails, and phone calls.

Morongo Unified School District released the following statement:

As you know, the health and safety of our students, staff and our surrounding community is a priority. Effective March 13, 2020, to help limit spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus COVID-19, the Morongo Unified School District will cancel upcoming events through the end of March.

"I am comfortable with their decisions," parent Tesha Van said.

Van has 3 children going to desert schools. She believes it's only a matter of time before kids are sent home.

Valley school districts are making decisions based on information obtained from the Riverside County Department of Public Health.

"We are prepared to be at home. Hopefully they are giving them enough studies to get them through the day," parent Toni Jaime said.

Jaime said if there are cancellations that could lead to other issues.

"No parent wants their children to stay home and miss out on weeks of education. For some students it's detrimental to their grades and their knowledge," Jaime said.

Jaime said her daughter's volleyball practice was canceled. She believes it's up to parents to inform their children on how to take precautions.

"You have to talk to your child and make sure that your child is giving people their personal space, and making sure they’re washing their hands and providing them with hand sanitizer," Jaime said.