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Billings schools announce coronavirus measures

Posted at 8:24 AM, Mar 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-13 19:38:58-04

BILLINGS - Billings School District 2 Superintendent Greg Upham announced Friday a number of measures the district will take to combat the spread of coronavirus.

In a letter to parents sent out Friday morning, Upham said public schools will remain "in normal operating procedures, including transportation and food services," but he also announced several "immediate actions."

The actions effective Monday include:

- Suspension of all out-of-state travel for student groups and activities until further notice.

- Postponement of indoor events that are open to the public.

- Suspension of all outside volunteer presence.

- Suspension of all out-of-state travel for staff professional development until further notice.

- Postponement of all in-district PIR and professional development activities.

- Distribution of protocols to students and staff returning from out-of-state travel.

In an interview, Upham said proms have been canceled.

Upham said in the letter the district will continue to communicate regularly with RiverStone Health regarding the COVID-19 impact in Yellowstone County.

The district will also monitor approval of all school sanctioned student and staff in-state travel activities, as well as all outdoor school activities.

The district will also prepare for potential off-site instruction and continue extensive cleaning processes and protocols.

"In response to the ever-changing dynamics related to the COVID-19 virus, I would like to thank you for your calmness and support in dealing with this situation," Upham said in the letter." Please be assured my office is in constant contact with the Yellowstone County Health Officer who is providing assistance and recommendations of actions to be taken as the status continues to rapidly evolve."

Billlings schools will provide updates on all coronavirus-related actions on a new section of their website.

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