Covid-19 Update
The Board of Regents put out a statement stating that public universities across South Dakota will extend their spring break by one week and cancel non-essential travel in an effort to reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
President Barry H. Dunn also released a statement on Friday, March 13 describing specific actions being taken by South Dakota State University. He stated that since early January, the SDSU Emergency Management Team has been closely monitoring the evolving circumstances involving COVID-19 and has taken actions to protect our campus community by identifying and implementing precautionary measures. Actions being taken include the extension of spring break for students through Friday, March 20, additional travel restrictions, cancelation of on-campus events and visitor activities and the temporary closure of a number of SDSU attractions and business operations. These actions are being taken with the health and safety of our university community in mind.
In addition, on Monday, March 16, President Dunn mentioned the Fishback Center for ECE would continue to be part of the campus closures out of precaution. Therefore, the preschool and toddler classrooms will be closed and remain closed through the end of the year. In addition, the Brookings School District has closed through to the end of the year as well with remote instruction occurring for all classes.
We understand that the SDSU Preschool closure may impact childcare needs and cause frustration, yet we only have the best interest of the health and safety of the children, college students and staff in mind.
In the meantime, please take common sense steps to limit the COVID-19 virus’ impact on you and others:
- Stay home when you are sick
- Wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face
- Cover your mouth with tissues when you sneeze and immediately discard them in the trash
- Avoid people who are sick with respiratory symptoms
- Frequently clean touched surfaces
- Practice social distancing, such as avoiding handshakes or giving more space between people when having face to face conversations.