COVID-19 Information

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China and has now been detected in almost 90 locations internationally, including in the United States and Olmsted County. Based on reports from places where it has circulated, COVID-19 presents a range of illnesses. Older people and people of all ages with severe underlying health conditions - like heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, for example, are at higher risk. Source: CDC

We employ strategic disinfectant procedures during the influenza season. The same cleaning strategies that we use to limit influenza transmission are effective in combating COVID-19. The District is reviewing our crisis plan and working to update a specific pandemic disease preparation strategy. This plan includes details about how we monitor any potential flu outbreak in a school building and the various action steps we will use to prevent the spread of illness.

In making a determination on school closures due to illness, the District would work with local partners like Mower County Health and Human Services, Minnesota Department of Health, and the Minnesota Department of Education. We are continuously monitoring how the virus is impacting our community. The District maintains a list of school-related activities and events which will be monitored for possible cancelation. School closures and activity cancellations are sent directly to families via Infinite Campus Messenger, and are posted on our official social media channels and our website.

The District is taking steps for contingency planning should closures become necessary. The building principals will be seeking input this week from staff with respect to lesson planning and preparedness. The District is also taking steps to determine if District technology resource-sharing is an option for families who do not have access at home. In addition, our Student Nutrition Services is currently working on possible plans to provide breakfast and lunch for our students due to an extended closure.

No, Kids Korner will not run should schools be closed due to COVID-19. Parents should consider other arrangements if closure becomes necessary.

Right now, the most important actions people in our community can take to prevent illness are simple and effective. The Minnesota Department of Health indicates that following these basic good health practices is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family:

• Consider getting a seasonal flu shot. It's not too late.
• Make sure to cover coughs and sneezes.
• Encourage frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Model frequent handwashing in your home and workplace.
• Keep children home from school until fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
• Stay home from work if you are sick.
• If you plan to go to the doctor with flu-like symptoms, please call ahead so the clinic can be prepared for your arrival.

Additionally, you may take this opportunity to review your family's emergency plans. Think about backup plans for child care if school is temporarily closed or if parents, children, or a child care provider is sick. Think about necessary items to have at home, including prescription medication (check your refill dates), and non-prescription medications, such as fever-reducing medications.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has prepared guidance for parents to talk with their children about COVID-19.

• Read the NASP guidance in English.
• Read the NASP guidance in Spanish.

Student and staff health and safety is a top priority. We are monitoring developments closely and receive strong support from our partners at the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Education. Additionally, the District is involved in a weekly statewide meeting between the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), and other school districts. We are also receiving updates from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure our school district has the latest information.