Iowa high school sports, fine arts on hold until May 1

BOONE – Events for Iowa’s high school Unified Activities partners will remain prohibited through April 30 as Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced an extension of school closures through that date on Thursday afternoon, according to an April 3 news release.

This continued response to the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) moves the previously announced potential return date from April 13 to May 1 for the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, the Iowa High School Athletic Association, the Iowa High School Music Association and the Iowa High School Speech Association.

Gov. Reynolds announced the extension of school closures alongside representatives from the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Department of Education, this past Thursday in Johnston. The primary concern of all four organizations is the health and safety of students, schools, and their communities during this pandemic.

The IGHSAU and IHSAA are still working to offer spring and summer sports opportunities, provided they can be done safely and follow CDC, state and local guidelines. The IHSMA and IHSSA are collaborating with member schools to provide up-to-date guidance for teachers and participants through this prohibited period.

However, schedules will continue to be assessed as this crisis develops and further announcements from the Unified Activities partners will follow recommendations of state and public health officials.

An updated schedule for activities was provided this past Monday. The dates will provide for a May 1 return to school.