Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members:
As more information is released from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about the Coronavirus and its potential impact on our country, we want you to be aware that we are staying up-to-date on the latest information and we’re reviewing all of our public safety plans.
We know an outbreak in our region could impact schools, so we are preparing for many what-if scenarios to minimize disruption while keeping students and staff safe.
For example, we have developed redundancy to complete business transactions and payroll. Our maintenance department is prepared to disinfect, as needed and required, with Pentrexx spray, an EPA approved product effective against the 2019-nCov or the Coronavirus. We are also using Biotrexx soap and cleaning agents having the same effectiveness rating against the Coronavirus. Should we be required to close school by the authority of the state of Ohio or a federal entity, our school district is one of the rare few with the ability for teachers to support instruction virtually via the internet. I would propose taking full advantage of this asset. I believe we will have enough advance notice to allow students to have access to their Chromebooks and chargers at home.
In the meantime, our school nurses are educated on the signs and symptoms of the coronavirus—many of which are similar to the common cold: runny nose, headache, cough, sore throat, fever. We encourage you to visit the CDC website to learn more about prevention and treatment.
Just as with other illnesses, we are asking you to do your part to help prevent the spread of disease. The CDC recommends these everyday preventive steps:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick. This is worth repeating…PLEASE stay home when you’re sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
We are committed to the health and safety of our community and we will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. Please let me know if you have questions or concerns.
Sincerely,