Parents at P.S. 209 in the Bronx compelled officials to close the school Tuesday for at least five days after several students fell ill with flu-like symptoms.

According to the Department of Education, 14 students experienced symptoms consistent with swine flu last Friday. However, PTA President Lisa Colon claims that the number of students who fell ill is as high as 50. She says parents were calling for the school to shutter its doors for weeks, but no action was taken until parents held a meeting Friday.

"The parents decided to unite as one and not send their kids to school," Colon says.

Parents say they are relieved to see that their message was heard and taken into consideration by education officials.

The principal of P.S. 209 sent a letter to parents saying children who are not sick can continue studying at home with materials that are available online and at two Bronx locations.