File photo (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)
SALT LAKE CITY — One day after Utah State University closed for three days to convert to online instruction due to the novel coronavirus concerns, Gov. Gary Herbert announced on Friday that all school districts across the state will have a “soft closure” for two weeks, which starts on Monday.
“Utah schools are dismissed for a period of two weeks in order to prevent the spread of this virus. We think this is prudent. This is based on good science. This is based on what we have learned from other areas of the country and around the world.
After two weeks, officials will reevaluate and decide what to do going forward.
Herbert explained that all Utah school districts will be dismissed, which allows for local control of schools based on community needs.
“During this time schools will still provide meals to students as necessary. There are some families that this will be somewhat of a transition maybe, those that are single parents, maybe both parents and they will have to find accommodations. We’re not going to close the doors at schools for those folks, providing meals and a roof over their head.
Herbert emphasized this is a preventive measure. He said, “Acting early is better than acting late.”
Free News Delivery by Email
Would you like to have the day’s news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!