No classes for Three Rivers due to power outages

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Administrators at Three Rivers Community College have announced the college will be closed today through Friday in response to massive power outages throughout Southeast Missouri as a result of last week's ice and snow storm.

College president Joe Rozman made the announcement in a written statement issued Sunday afternoon. The closure affects the main Three Rivers campus in Poplar Bluff and all sites, including Campbell, Kennett, Malden, Portageville and Sikeston.

Three Rivers' service area encompasses 15 Southeast Missouri counties, 7 career and technical centers and 52 public school districts, all of which have been affected by the severe winter storm and its aftermath.

Three Rivers executive vice president and vice president of academic affairs Dr. Larry Kimbrow met with other college officials Sunday and recommended the weeklong college closure.

"We must think about our entire student body, including students living in outlying areas that are still without power and services, the many high school students who are enrolled in dual credit courses with the college, and the students at the many Three Rivers centers and sites throughout Southeast Missouri," Kimbrow said.

He encouraged students to continue with assignments, if possible. Those with access to the Internet are encouraged to e-mail their instructors using the Three Rivers student e-mail system and to check the Blackboard regularly.

In addition, Kimbrow announced the Rutland Library at Three Rivers will be open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Internet access for Three Rivers students will be available at the library during those hours.

"We empathize with all those coping with the aftermath of this horrific storm. Our first thoughts are always for our students, faculty and staff and the well-being of their families. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those continuing to deal with the storm's aftermath and with the public service and utility workers on the front line during this time," Rozman said.

Another school system that was closed, Oak Ridge School District, will be in session today. Busses will use using snow routes, according to an e-mail from superintendent Gerald Landewee.