Flu Outbreak Forces Several North Texas Schools to Close for the Week

DALLAS – Several schools across North Texas have shut down for the rest of the week as a severe flu outbreak and other illnesses spread rapidly through campuses, significantly reducing attendance rates.

What We Know: At least three school districts and one charter school have announced closures due to widespread illness. District officials reported that both student and staff attendance had already been low, and more students left school sick after exposure.

The following schools and districts have confirmed closures:

Comanche ISD – Closed until Jan. 30
Godley ISD – Closed until Feb. 3
Treetops School International – Closed until Feb. 3

Other districts, including Caddo Mills ISD, have reported extremely low attendance but remain open. On Tuesday, Godley ISD reported nearly 650 student absences, excluding those who left school sick during the day. The district enrolls approximately 3,200 students. Additionally, 60 staff members were out sick.

Districts that remain open report attendance rates between 70% and 80%, significantly below normal levels.

Precautionary Measures: Staff at closed schools will deep clean and sanitize facilities to prevent further spread, according to officials from Treetops School International, Godley ISD, and Comanche ISD.

Meanwhile, open districts are encouraging students to frequently wash their hands and stay home if they are sick. Officials urge parents to monitor their children for flu symptoms to help control the outbreak.