USD 247 takes very seriously the health of its students and employees. District leaders, school administrators, and our school nurse are working together in the best interest of the health of students and employees. USD 247 wants families to know we are closely monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and we are in close contact with local and state health partners, including the Crawford County Health Department, the Cherokee County Health Department, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) for guidance on preventative measures for the Coronavirus Disease or COVID-19.

In the event of an outbreak in our community, the school district will take direction and guidance from the health department on the response measures; however, the district is preparing by taking the following actions:

● Due to the high rate of influenza this season in our schools, precautions are currently being taken to prevent the spread of influenza. These steps include communicating with staff as well as parents to provide recommendations on how to control the spread of illness and what to do when you are sick.
● Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. School staff members have access to preventive products like disposable wipes and hand sanitizer to use throughout the day to stop the spread of germs. District custodial staff utilize hospital-grade disinfectants and decontamination cleaning systems that sanitize both hard and soft surfaces killing viruses and bacteria.
● An increase in hygiene reminders for students including hand washing before and after meals and covering noses and mouths when sneezing.
● In the event that the health department recommends the closing of schools, the district will communicate with parents utilizing the normal methods of communication.
● If the health department recommends the cancellation of mass gatherings, the district will consider what activities need to be cancelled and communicate with parents and students.
● The District Nurse has attended and will continue to attend planning and informational meetings with the health department.
● Also, in accordance with district policy, a crisis intervention plan exists to help school district administrators and faculty deal effectively with crises that could interfere with the normal daily operation of the school.

If families have additional questions about COVID-19, they are encouraged to view the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Fact Sheet from KDHE. This fact sheet includes information about the virus, symptoms and severity, and how to protect yourself.

STAY HEALTHY
One of the most important things our community can do right now is practice preventative measures and remind students of everyday actions they can take to slow the spread of germs and prevent illness. The district appreciates the encouraging of these healthy habits at home as well.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, and then wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. School staff have access to preventive products like disposable wipes and hand sanitizer to use throughout the day to stop the spread of germs. District custodial staff utilize hospital-grade disinfectants and decontamination cleaning systems that sanitize both hard and soft surfaces killing viruses and bacteria.
• Stay home when you are sick except to get medical care. Children who are ill should remain home until they are fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of medication.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

USD 247 appreciates your partnership in supporting the health and safety of our school communities.

Helpful Links

What to do if you are sick with coronavirus

2019-20-Coronavirus-factsheet

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

Center for Disease Control and Prevention