MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WTVF) — With schools in several districts across Middle Tennessee closed due to illness, many working parents without access to childcare, are left scrambling to find a place to take their kids.
Wilson County Schools were closed Thursday, Friday and Monday due to widespread sickness reported in the district. District officials hoped the days would allow students, faculty and staff to overcome any illnesses, and allow time for all schools to be disinfected.
When the owner of Universal Gymnastics in Mt. Juliet heard schools would be closed, she extended the hours at the gym and started publicizing that she has staff available to watch area kids from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“I think it’s really hard for parents,” said Victoria Graves, Owner of Universal Gymnastics. “It was cool to be able to help the parents in the community who had to go to work.”
The facility offers gymnastics equipment, trampolines and a ninja course to keep kids entertained. Coaches are on hand to make sure kids stay safe.
To prevent germs from spreading, the facility keeps hand sanitizer available and the gym is cleaned and sanitized every night.
MeTime Drop-in Child Care on N. Mt Juliet Road is used to saving stressed parents who need a last minute place to drop their kids. The facility accepts kids ages 6 weeks to 12 years old.
“We’ve had a lot of school kids here today,” said Jamie Grubbs, Lead Caregiver at MeTime Drop-In Child Care. “It’s a safe environment for kids at any point, if you are need of a babysitter.”
Grubbs said the facility is also taking extra precautions in cold and flu season, by encouraging everyone to wash their hands, keeping hand sanitizer available, and cleaning toys.
Wilson County Schools will be back in session Tuesday, Feb. 4. For more information on school closings visit: https://www.newschannel5.com/weather/school-closings-delays
