Wisconsin governor directs DHS to mandate closure of all K-12 schools in state
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers addresses a joint session of the Legislature in the Assembly chambers during the Governor's State of the State speech at the state Capitol, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019, in Madison, Wis.[AP/ Andy Manis]
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has directed the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to issue an agency order mandating the statewide closure of all K-12 schools, both public and private, in an attempt to help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.
In a release, the governor’s office announced that the closure would begin on Wednesday with an anticipated reopening date of April 6. School districts are allowed to close earlier than Wednesday if they choose.
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“Closing our schools is not a decision I made lightly, but keeping our kids, our educators, our families, and our communities safe is a top priority as we continue our work to respond to and prevent further spread of COVID-19 in Wisconsin,” said Gov. Evers.
The release goes on to say people should follow simple steps to prevent illness and avoid exposure to the virus including:
• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water;
• Covering coughs and sneezes;
• Avoiding touching your face;
• Staying home when sick.