The school and the Mason County Health Department notes why a particular student is absent and the illness they report. If 25 percent of the total student body are out due to flu-like symptoms, officials from the Mason County Health Department and the school district decide if the school should be closed for five days. The decision was made that Ashton Elementary met that criteria and will be closed.

Health department officials and school officials will continue to monitor the schools and will take the necessary actions when needed. Officials urge the cooperation of parents in this matter.