Influenza and Health Updates
Dear Parents/Guardians:
We are writing you to provide a few updates and reminders regarding flu season and the development of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Although identified cases of the seasonal flu appear relatively typical and the district has not been identified as being in immediate danger from COVID-19, our goal is to be preventative and proactive in our approach. Below are steps the district has taken to mitigate the spread of any infectious illness, and we have also included guidelines from the PA Department of Health to help families stay healthier and minimize the spread of illnesses.
District Steps
- We have hired and are utilizing extra cleaning staff to make sure the classrooms and common areas can be disinfected more thoroughly.
- We have purchased and are regularly utilizing a disinfectant that can be sprayed throughout the classrooms, commons areas, and busses/vans. The disinfectant does not require wiping and can attach to all surfaces including desks, carpets, floors, lockers, toys, seats, etc. It kills 99.9% of germs, including those potentially associated with COVID-19.
- We have created handwashing stations in all classrooms. Rooms that have sinks have been provided additional anti-bacterial soap, and those without sinks have been provided with alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- We have provided our staff with anti-bacterial wipes in order to more frequently clean high-touch objects such as doorknobs, light switches, desks, etc.
Parents/Guardians
- Encourage your students to wash their hands regularly. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Please keep your students home when they are sick. Students should be fever and/or vomit free for at least 24 hours before they attend school (without the use of fever-reducing medicines). Even if they appear to feel better, keeping them away from others for 24 hours is crucial. These are excused absences and not held against students/parents.
- Teach students to cover coughs and sneezes with their elbows, not their hands.
- Encourage students to keep their hands from touching their face.
- Discourage students from sharing food or other personal items.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects, including cell phones and computers.
- Any specific health concerns should be directed toward your family physician or healthcare provider.
- Visit the following websites for more information:
We will provide additional information as it becomes available. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Stay Healthy!