(WXYZ) — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced that all Michigan schools will be closed until Monday April 6 because of the coronavirus.

Watch the Governor's announcement below:

The closure, which affects all K-12 buildings statewide, will begin Monday, March 16.

“This is a necessary step to protect our kids, our families, and our overall public health,” said Governor Whitmer. “I am working with partners across state government to ensure educators, parents, and students have the support they need during this time, and to ensure our children who rely on school for meals have access to food. I know this will be a tough time, but we’re doing this to keep the most people we can safe. I urge everyone to make smart choices during this time and to do everything they can to protect themselves and their families.”

Whitmer was joined by the state superintendent in making the announcement Thursday night.

“Closing our K-12 school buildings is the responsible choice that will minimize the risk of exposure for children, educators, and families and mitigate the spread of coronavirus,” said Michigan State Superintendent Michael Rice. “The Department of Education will continue to work closely with our partners in state government to help our students and educators in each school district get through this time. This is about protecting the most people in Michigan.”

It comes after dozens of metro Detroit schools announced that they would be closed for several days to prepare for an eventual closure.

At least four districts had already announced they would be closed for several weeks