Beginning Monday March 16 all schools in Michigan (K-12) will be closed for three weeks, per Governor Whitmer.

The news came during a live press conference on Thursday night after the state confirmed 12 total cases of COVID-19.

Governor Whitmer said this is a "necessary step" to protect communities and prevent further spread. This is a statewide closure of all public, private, and boarding schools. As of right now, the plan is that buildings will reopen on Monday, April 6. The closure does not effect day care centers, however, that may change in the future if necessary. Whitmer also says that employees should continue to be paid as if school is in session.

She went on to say,

I urge everyone to make smart choices during this time and to do everything they can to protect themselves and their families.

The State Superintendent says they are communicating with local school districts to work on still getting meals for those children who rely on getting their meals at school.

Ohio, Kentucky, and Maryland have also ordered statewide closures of K-12 schools.

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