On Thursday, October 8, the Minnesota Department of Education and Department of Health announced an update to the 2020-21 Planning Guide for Minnesota Public Schools that would safely allow spectators at events in public school facilities while still prioritizing the health and wellness of our students, school staff, and communities.

Under the revised plan, each team or group at an indoor event, competition, or performance in a school facility will be allowed up to a total allocation of two spectators per participant. Participants include athletes, performers, competitors, student workers, and coaches/advisors. Consistent with other Stay Safe guidance, spectators must be separated by at least 6 feet between households/spectator groups.

Before the change, the MSHSL had planned on an almost full prohibition on attendance for indoor high school sporting events, a move legislators found inconsistent with gathering protocols for other events around the state.

Following the announcement, Senator Mark Johnson (R-East Grand Forks) issued the following statement:

“This is good news for our student-athletes and their family and friends who can now attend these sporting events. Over the past few weeks, I have heard from many families who are eager to see their student-athlete participate in their sport. I am happy to see MHSL change their position. While this is just a small move towards safely re-opening our state, it is still a step forward and a step in the right direction.”