Coronavirus Update 3-12-20
Dear Andrew School Community:
In light of the Iowa Board of Regents announcement that all state universities will move toward online course work following spring break, and with other state and local events canceling, we want to assure our families and communities that normal school operations will continue at this time.
However, it is critically important for you to be aware that this situation could change at any time. We are continuing to receive new information at a rapid rate which could result in an extended closure of schools. I would highly encourage you to think about an emergency/backup plan for childcare should a caregiver become ill, or if school would need to be closed for a period of time due to illness.
While our overarching objective is to keep students and staff members safe, we also acknowledge that we have a social responsibility to ensure the continuity of education for our students. The Iowa Department of Public Health reports there is no community spread of COVID19 in Iowa at this time, and the Jackson County Department of Health has asserted that the risk to students and staff is minimal. At this time, they have notified schools that the current situation does not warrant closing school. At the same time, the largest public school system in the state of Iowa announced today that their schools will be closed through at least the end of the month. It is quite possible that other school districts will follow suit.
In the event that the Iowa Department of Public Health determines that there is a need for closure, or other action, the County Health Departments and school districts will coordinate to respond and communicate additional information at that time.
As a district, we are working to be proactive and preventative, while operating in a state of preparedness. Please know that we are constantly monitoring communication from the County Health Department, as well as updates from the Iowa Department of Public Health. Moving forward, we will continue to partner with them to gather the information needed to make the decision that is in the best interest of the students and families in our community. For reference, the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus can be found via the Iowa Department of Public Health Coronavirus and the Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus or you can call the public hotline for Iowans with COVID19 questions by calling 2-1-1, which is available 24/7.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff is always our top priority. We have procedures in place as part of our district emergency operating plan[s] to handle situations regarding the spread of illness.
As a reminder, to help prevent the spread of this respiratory virus, the CDC recommends the following actions:
Frequently wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Please make sure to stay tuned for more information by checking our school website and by following us on Facebook.
Well Wishes to All!
Chris Fee