LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) is keeping some sports on hold for the second week in a row as Louisville remains a red-zone for COVID-19 cases.

The district made the announcement in an email sent to families Friday morning.

"Our coaches and athletic directors continue to put student safety first and have taken the necessary precautions to protect student-athletes. The health and safety of everyone within our JCPS community is our top priority," the email read.

Next week's changes include:

• Allowing JCPS Cross Country teams to compete in the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) state championship Saturday. Cross Country is the only JCPS sport in postseason play;
• Canceling regular season football games but allowing practice in small groups with no game-like simulations; and
• Allowing practice for all winter sports in small groups with no game-like simulations.

The district will review the data next Thursday evening and make another decision about athletics next Friday morning.

Jefferson County's red-zone designation means there are at least 25 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people, according to information from the Kentucky Department for Public Health. The email said state guidance advises district leaders to review the data to make a decision about sports for the upcoming week.

"JCPS has an obligation to follow the guidance and direction from state leaders and health officials.  It is our hope that we can resume full practices and games very soon," said the email.