ABERDEEN, Miss. (WTVA) - Aberdeen Schools will continue virtual instruction through the remainder of the fall semester and the first week of the spring semester.

In a letter to parents and staff, Aberdeen Schools says the district has seen a rise in confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, as well as the number of students and staff members in quarantine.

Out of an abundance of caution, the district will continue virtual learning for several more weeks.

The school district dismisses Dec. 18 for Christmas break.

Classes will resume on Jan. 5. The first week back will also be virtual.

Also, the district has paused all extracurricular activities through Dec. 18.

Thursday statement from Aberdeen Schools:

Aberdeen Schools: Good afternoon! The district has seen a rise in confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 and also in the number of students/staff members that will be in quarantine. Out of an abundance of caution, the district will continue the virtual delivery model for the following weeks: December 7 - December 11, December 14 - December 18, and the week upon return from the holidays - January 5, 2021 - January 8, 2021. Also, all extracurricular activities will be paused through Friday, December 18, 2020. The health and safety of our students, staff, and community is paramount! It is crucial that all students attend daily virtual classes and complete assignments for academic success and attendance purposes. The district will continue to provide meals in the same manner we have done this week. In advance, thank you for your understanding as we continue to navigate through these difficult times!