PORT ORCHARD — The Sidney Museum and Arts Association said today that it “has made the difficult decision” to cancel the reception for the 2020 Student Art Show scheduled for Saturday, March 14.

The exhibit reception was to feature artwork from South Kitsap High School students and John Sedgwick Middle School’s photography club.

The decision came on the heels of an announcement today that South Kitsap School District has suspended all after-school activities for the foreseeable future due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Association officials said the Sidney Art Gallery will remain open for the time being so the student works can be viewed by patrons.

An announcement by the association’s board of directors stated that their intent is to actively monitor updates from federal, state and county agencies concerning recommended steps to take to keep volunteers and patrons healthy.