Due to rising numbers of COVID cases causing staff shortages and high absenteeism, Hartselle City Schools will remain on virtual learning for the remainder of the week according to school administration.

Superintendent Dr. Dee Dee Jones said in an email the plan is for students and teachers to resume a regular in-person schedule Jan. 24.

Free breakfast and lunch meals will be provided to any child 18 years and younger. Curbside pickup will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the bus line at Hartselle High School Jan. 19. The package will include meals for Wednesday through Friday.

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation, flexibility and understanding,” Jones added.

As of Jan. 14, Hartselle City Schools had 208 positive cases of COVID-19.

Hartselle City Schools employs 490 administrators, teachers and staff and serves 3,629 students.