ROCK — Mid Peninsula School closed its doors to students Monday following a surge of COVID-19 infections among students and staff.

“As of November 1, 2020 Mid Peninsula had no staff members or students that had tested positive for COVID-19,” Superintendent and Principal Eric VanDamme wrote in a letter, which was posted on Facebook. “As I type this letter on November 9, 2020, we have several students and eight staff members either quarantined or positive for COVID-19. Pair that with most hospitals in the Upper Peninsula at or above capacity for COVID patients and we are left to make a decision that is in the best interest of our students and staff.”

Starting this morning, all students were shifted to online learning. Parents who were in need of Wi-Fi, a compatible device or child care assistance were asked to contact the school.

The switch to online learning will continue through Thanksgiving break, and the school anticipates a return to in-person learning on Monday, Nov. 30.

“We understand the impact this will have on our students and parents and did not make this decision without a considerable amount of thought. We are willing to help whenever able. As always I appreciate your patience and understanding as we all try to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff,” wrote VanDamme.

School lunches and breakfasts will be delivered to bus pick up and drop off sites Wednesday. A food delivery schedule will be updated on the school’s Facebook page.