The Pearl River School District announced Wednesday afternoon that schools will be closed Thurday and Friday due to the impact of Hurricane Sandy.
Schools throughout Rockland County have been closed since Monday due to the storm. South Orangetown and Clarkstown Schools have also already cancelled for Thursday and Friday.
Pearl River Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Morgano's statement on the decision reads: "Pearl River schools will remain closed Thursday, November 1st, and Friday, November 2nd, due to the continued impact of the storm. Traffic lights are out and the police department does not have the manpower to direct traffic at each site. Additionally, the County Executive is asking for all unnecessary traffic to remain off the roads, including school buses."
The Town of Orangetown is advising against all outdoor activities, including postponing Halloween activities until Saturday. Many in Rockland County are still without power and Orange & Rockland Utilities have warned residents that there are still dangers from downed or damaged wires.
Pearl River Schools had already taken a cautious appraoch and had the strong recommendation from Orangetown Police Chief Kevin Nulty that they remain closed.
"Pearl River was going to open tomorrow, but I strongly suggested to them that they don't (for road safety reasons)," Nulty said.
All Section 1 playoff contests have been postponed until Saturday at the earliest. Pearl River's Class A quarterfinal girls soccer playoff game against Eastchester will be made up Saturday, Sunday or Monday, depending on agreement between the two schools.
