Shaker Schools Will Suspend Sports If COVID-19 Outbreak Worsens

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — The Shaker Schools will suspend athletic activities if Cuyahoga County is classified as a "purple" or "Level 4" county this week.

Cuyahoga County is currently a "red" county, meaning there is a very high rate of COVID-19 spread locally. However, the county could be upgraded to "purple" this week, meaning the virus' spread is severe.

If sports are suspended, activities will only return with guidance from state and local health departments, the school district said. Coaches are preparing for the possibility of virtual training and team meetings.

"As we move forward toward an anticipated start date of August 1 for fall sports, we ask for your continued flexibility and patience over the next few weeks. While we are all excited to build on the gains from our return to training, we will continue to be proactive in our response to coronavirus and act out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff," the Shaker Schools said in a letter to the community.

Gov. Mike DeWine will hold a 5:30 p.m. news conference on Wednesday. He is expected to discuss the continued spread of COVID-19 throughout Ohio.