Las Cruces Public Schools reinstates social distancing, closes concessions at gyms, auditoriums

Chapin's KJ Lewis comes down with a defensive rebound against Las Cruces High on Tuesday night.  Photo taken 11/30/21.
Chapin's KJ Lewis comes down with a defensive rebound against Las Cruces High on Tuesday night. Photo taken 11/30/21.

LAS CRUCES - Las Cruces Public Schools is implementing enhanced COVID-safe practices at all indoor athletic events and school activities amid rising COVID-19 infections.

LCPS stated in a news release it will reinstate a social distancing protocol inside all gymnasiums and auditoriums. Beginning Friday, Jan. 21, 2022, spectators will notice marked locations for available seating on bleachers and seating areas. Beginning Monday, Jan. 24, concession standswill be closed and food and drink will be prohibited to encourage 100 percent mask compliance.

“These measures are our best line of prevention right now,” said LCPS Superintendent Ralph Ramos. “I want to see championships and musical performances. I want our parents to be able to watch their students perform and finish this season with spectators in the stands. Please know that I appreciate everyone’s cooperation in this, and I encourage you to do your part to keep our schools and community safe.”

Ramos added that he hopes the new protocols are temporary and that as infection rates decrease, these measures can be revisited.

More: Las Cruces school board split over COVID-19 protocols: 'We're going in the wrong direction,' president says

LCPS tracks COVID-19 cases and releases information related to pandemic protocols at https://lcpsnm.sites.thrillshare.com/page/covid-19-case-status.

This week, the district has reported its highest number of positive COVID-19 cases since the beginning of the pandemic. The trend mirrors similar spikes within Doña Ana County, New Mexico and the United States.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Las Cruces Public Schools reinstates social distancing, closes concessions at games, events