COVID-19
I am writing in an effort to keep you updated on school/community-related matters associated with Coronavirus (COVID-19); to provide some clarity and relevant information, and to bring a sense of calmness to the current situation that is occurring locally, nationally and internationally. As of the writing of this email, Illinois has at least 19 confirmed cases of COVID-19, yet none have been confirmed in Grundy County.
Gardner CCSD 72C and local districts continue to monitor the current status of COVID-19, and we are working closely with the Grundy County Health Department and other health officials. The school districts will continue to take direction from the Grundy County Health Department, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), while reviewing the information being updated daily from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
As the COVID-19 confirmed cases are likely to continue to grow across Illinois, please be assured that we will continue our efforts to be proactive in our planning, preparation and communication to all of our stakeholders. We ask that you continue to be diligent in our schools to ensure frequent hand-washing by both students and adults, and take opportunities to remind our students of proper handwashing techniques. At this time, the IDPH is not recommending any special sanitizing processes beyond the routine cleaning required of our custodial and maintenance staff. Should the recommendation from the IDPH change, the school district will immediately alter our cleaning procedures to mirror their recommendations.
In accordance with Board policies, and to most effectively protect the health of our learners and staff, we are working very hard to be prepared in the event COVID-19 has a more direct impact on our local community. Should the Grundy County Health Department, IDPH or the ISBE recommend the closure of our schools, the school district will immediately comply. In preparation for this possibility, the school district is currently working to implement an E-Learning plan to allow for our students’ continuation of educational services from home. Nothing can replace the educational experience our students receive from the direct instruction of our teachers, but if the school district is forced to close, we are confident that we will successfully support our students in the continuation of their educational experiences.
As we get closer to Spring Break, it is important for our stakeholders to know that the districts will align itself with the current guidelines set forth from the IDPH and CDC. Currently, the IDPH states that if you are returning from an area identified by the CDC as “Level 3” (currently China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran), you are required to self-quarantine for 14 days after the day you return to the United States and monitory your health (Please note that areas listed as Level 3 may change). If you are traveling, it is your responsibility to check the CDC website every day for the latest updates. For more information, please visit the CDC website:
https://www.cdc.gov/
Lastly, please know that if district officials become aware of a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Grundy County and/or have a district staff or student impacted, we will work closely with the identified local health officials and organizations to ensure information and directions are appropriately communicated to our school community.
Please be reminded that according to the CDC, for the majority of people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is considered low. It is also important to know that the current guidance being provided by the Grundy County Health Department and the IDPH does not recommend
- The use of masks or gloves
- Canceling mass gatherings
- Canceling classes
However, I ask that you continue to take these common-sense protective actions as specifically recommended by the IDPH.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- 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.
- Consult with your healthcare provider about getting an influenza vaccination if you haven’t already done so.
The health and safety of our students continue to be of primary importance to our school districts. If current information changes, we will continue to update you. Do not hesitate to contact the school district at 815-237-2313 should you have any questions or concerns.