Press Release: Friday, September 24, 2021 

Great Falls Public Schools has been monitoring the COVID-19 spread since school started. This week the Cascade County Health Department reported that the Average Cases per 100,000 in Cascade County had hit 100/100K. In addition, the positivity rate remains at 12.7 percent. Both are indicators of a HIGH community transmission rate. Based on the school district’s policy, when community transmission rates reach this point, we will implement some additional health and safety protocols, to include mask requirements. 

Our Goal is to keep schools open and teachers engaged with our students as much as possible. Therefore, beginning on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021, we will be requiring all students, staff and visitors to Great Falls Public Schools to wear masks in school and at all school events. This request will remain in place until the transmission rates drop back into a safer phase (moderate level) and stays low for at least one full week. 

In addition, Great Falls Public Schools will be limiting access to school facilities by outside groups for the next few weeks as well.  The limitations will be in effect until the transmission rates drop into the moderate range for a week or more. 

Student athletic activities will continue this week as scheduled. However, there will be health and safety protocols which include a mask requirement when students and coaches are in close proximity.  Spectators are asked to wear masks at all athletic events at this time as well.   

Parents, staff and students are reminded to monitor your health and wellbeing each day. If you are feeling sick and/or exhibiting any flu-like symptoms, please stay home and contact your health care provider. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html