Gov. Kim Reynolds recommended last night that Iowa schools close for four weeks after learning of more cases that indicate the coronavirus is spreading through the state. Reynolds said Saturday that she didn’t support cancelling school, but a day later she said it was time for schools to stop holding classes after four more residents tested positive for the virus. The new cases bring the total to 22 Iowa residents who have tested positive. Two of the people who tested positive had recently traveled internationally but two others hadn’t traveled, indicating there was growing “community spread” of the virus. Those who had traveled live in Allamakee County. The two who hadn’t traveled live in Johnson County and Polk County. There are now three people who have tested positive without traveling to areas where the virus is more prevalent. Many colleges have opted to shift to online classes and Des Moines Public Schools has extended spring break because of the disease. Iowa officials said one of the positive tests was conducted by a national lab and that the availability of more testing options made it likely the number of positive tests would rise.
Waterloo Schools sent out a text and email after Governor Reynolds suggested closing schools for four weeks. The school said they are aware of the recommendation and plan to hold a meeting with district leadership Monday morning to decide what the next steps will be. Waterloo Schools are on Spring Break this week.