MADISON, Wis.. -- As part of Wisconsin's extended Safer at Home order, all public and private K-12 schools will remain closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, Governor Tony Evers' office announced Thursday.
Though schools will remain physically closed, they may continue to offer virtual "distance learning" opportunities, a news release from the governor's office says.
- Coronavirus in Wisconsin: Live Updates From Across the State
- We're Open: These Restaurants Are Still Offering Carryout And Delivery
- FULL COVERAGE: Coronavirus News And Resources You Can Use
Schools may also continue to be used for "essential government functions and food distribution," it says.
Milwaukee Public Schools will remain closed for the 2019–2020 school year.
"Our priority remains focused on the health and safety of all students, families, and staff," MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley said. "We will continue to serve and educate our students through our online platform while adhering to the guidance of our state leaders and health officials."
Milwaukee Public Schools have been distributing Chromebooks to students and providing new enrichment materials at our Stop, Grab, and Go sites throughout the city. MPS will continue to serve meals at those sites for the remainder of the school year.
The order does not apply to any educational facilities operated by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
Gov. Evers on Thursday extended Wisconsin's Safer at Home order until May 26 - more than a full month after the order was originally scheduled to end on April 24.
“A few weeks ago, we had a pretty grim outlook for what COVID-19 could mean for our state, but because of the efforts of all of you, Safer at Home is working. That said, we aren't out of the woods just yet,” said Gov. Evers in a press release. “As I've said all along, we are going to rely on the science and public health experts to guide us through this challenge. So, as we extend Safer at Home, I need all of you to continue doing the good work you've been doing so we can keep our families, our neighbors, and our communities safe, and get through this storm together.”
You can read the governor's full order below:
Check back often for updates on this developing story.