A parent contacted 7&4 concerned about this issue.

MESICK -- Like several school hallways across northern Michigan, the hallways at Mesick High School are empty.  Students aren't in class and won't return until next Tuesday...but this weekend district and regional sports tournaments are still on.

That prompted one parent to call 7&4 asking how they can shutdown schools but still allow sporting events.

"We are obviously very concerned about the safety and well being of the students.  When it comes to state competitions, districts or regional competitions, The Michigan High School Athletic Association determines where those events are held or if they're postponed," says interim superintendent of Mesick Consolidated Schools, John Chandler.

Chandler also told 7&4, The Michigan High School Athletic Association has the upper hand when it comes to state tournaments.

"Anything that didn't have to do with the state run competitions we cancelled.  So again, at this point we don't have a say in what the state does we just have to go along with it," says Chandler.

7&4 News contacted the MHSAA.  Despite what the Mesick school district says, the association tells although tournaments are locked into a calendar for schools across the state, a district can choose not to participate in the event.

The association also says that a number of schools statewide have continued on with athletic events, even though some districts are temporarily closed.

So, does this create health concerns for entire communities that come together for playoff games?

"I don't see an issue with cross country because it's an outside event.  Next week, we're scheduled to be open that's when the volleyball districts are.  So next week is really not even an issue."

For information on the MHSAA rules and regulations you can check our their website: http://www.mhsaa.com/