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RESERVE — While the area’s public schools must follow mandates from the state, local private schools like Riverside Academy must forge their own path through unprecedented territory.

“I’m 65 years old and I’ve never seen anything like this,” Riverside principal Mike Coburn said. “It’s somewhat like Katrina. I just feel so bad for the parents, who are left scrambling for two to three weeks — or longer — with their kids.”

After a board meeting on Monday, Coburn held a staff meeting on Tuesday to announce the school’s plans going forward.

Riverside will close for faculty and staff until March 30, then reevaluate. Teachers will provide lessons online through the school’s PlusPortals web site, Edmodo and, for elementary students, Class Dojo. Some teachers also will provide paper packet for students. All materials, including personal items in lockers, books, packets, etc. may be picked up from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday.

Parents and students may email teachers at any time for help.

Per LHSAA mandate, all extra curricular activities have been canceled. Coaches may hold practices with no more than a group of 10 at their discretion.

“Our goal is to have our kids be back in school as soon as possible, Coburn said. “But we want to make sure everyone is safe. We feel confident that our teachers will be able to provide everything our students need to continue learning until then.”