COVID-19 Resources

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Per Governor Walz's executive order, MPS school buildings are closed from March 17 to at least May 4 to slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). On Monday, April 6, classes will resume online (Distance Learning). If these dates change for school closings, families will be notified through robocalls, emails, social media and the MPS website. Please check back here for the latest updates.

MPS COVID-19 Response Plan

The MPS COVID-19 Response Plan provides essential information to students, families and staff to help everyone adjust to living and learning under these challenging times. Updates to this resource page will be made as we start Distance Learning and new information is made available.

Food for children during school closures

MPS is providing FREE food to any child through nearly 50 locations around the city while schools are closed due to COVD-19; see where these sites are and related information.

Mental health support line: 612.767.4158

A mental health support line is available from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday with support for multiple languages. Call 612.767.4158. The service will link students, families and staff to a therapist and other resources. Other mental health supports can be found on this MPS webpage.

Online enrichment learning resources

MPS has activities for families to help keep their children learning during school closures. Please note that students are NOT expected to complete Distance Learning lessons at this time (March 17-April 5) which would count toward their grades, but families are encouraged to have their students keep their minds active during school closures through online learning resources.

Free temporary WiFi services in response to Covid-19

The City of Minneapolis is providing free WiFi in Minneapolis for those who may need temporary internet access during the COVID situation. Visit this webpage for more information.

Child care services for emergency/health professionals

If you qualify as an essential emergency or health care professional per Governor Walz’s executive order, MPS is providing free child care to those who have a child enrolled in an MPS school. Services are for children ages 4 to 12 and provided Mondays-Fridays from 7:30 am-4:30 pm at designated locations (sites are open from 6:30 am - 6 pm). Students may be bussed to program for a 7:30 am arrival and a 4:00 pm departure daily. Individuals need to provide proof of their employment in the form of a letter from your employer or other worker identification. To sign up, contact: Email: mpls.kids@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612.806.1602.

Volunteering opportunities and other ways to help

We have information available for the many people from the public who have reached out to MPS to see how they might volunteer to help during this time.

COVID-19 (coronavirus) health guidelines

MPS is monitoring the respiratory illness novel coronavirus or “COVID-19” closely.  Health Services is in direct communication with Hennepin County Epidemiology and the MN Department of Health for school guidance.

Coronaviruses are common and are estimated to cause 33% of common colds;  health organizations are still learning how COVID-19 is transmitted, its severity, etc.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include mild to severe respiratory illness along with:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Per the Minnesota Department of Health, it is recommended to take the same precautions for avoiding colds and flu to protect yourself from COVID-19:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough.

More information on the novel coronavirus is available from the Minnesota Department of Health.