All Menifee schools will be closed on Thursday

An air tanker drops fire retardant over the Holy Fire, which has covered 6,200 acres. Photo courtesy of Cleveland National Forest Twitter page

Citing concerns over poor air quality caused by the Holy Fire, officials of all schools in Menifee announced they have cancelled classes for Thursday.

This includes the Menifee Union School District, Romoland School District, Santa Rosa Academy and the two local schools in the Perris Union High School District -- Paloma Valley and Heritage.

"We have to look out for our students and staff," said Grant Bennett, superintendent of the PUHSD. He said a decision will be made late Thursday afternoon about classes on Friday.

In announcing its closure, MUSD officials said, "The District will continue to be in touch with local and state agencies, and will let you know of any changes in your class schedules as they occur." Parents are urged to check the MUSD Facebook page and website for updated information.

Schools in the Romoland School District, as well as Santa Rosa Academy, were scheduled to have the first day of school on Thursday, but that will be delayed at least a day.