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Lamar State College Port Arthur officials are canceling classes next week in response to the rising spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Lamar State’s response follows the lead of college campuses across the state, including the University of Texas at Austin, its sister branch in San Antonio, Rice University and most recently Lamar University.

LSCPA President Betty Reynard said the cancellation of classes is a precautionary measure.

“As news continues to evolve about the novel coronavirus, it is understandable there are concerns on our campus and in our community,” she said. “I also want to stress that this is a time for all of us to demonstrate compassion, civility and personal responsibility as we make the best decisions for our college.”

Lamar State College Port Arthur students are currently on Spring Break and will not return to school until March 23, unless it’s deemed necessary to continue closure.

“It’s critical to prepare as this situation evolves and more cases are identified in the United States and around the world,” Reynard said. “We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow federal and state guidelines as we take appropriate precautions.”

Faculty will continue to teach Dual Enrollment and Woodrow Wilson Early College High School classes as scheduled.

Information will be updated regularly at lamarpa.edu.