LIFE AT VMS: Staying Healthy
by Ann Clark, Head of School
Dear Parents,

Winter is typically the time of year we are most impacted by cold and flu viruses. This year, we are aware of the concerns about the potential spread of the novel Coronavirus and want you to know that we are monitoring the situation closely through the Alameda County Public Health Department (ACPHD) and the Center of Disease Control (CDC).

At this time, residents in our county are still considered at low risk of becoming infected . (Those who have recently traveled to Wuhan, China where the virus was first detected or have come in close contact with someone who was ill who recently traveled in that area are advised to follow procedures on the CDC website.) 

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses , including:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • 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.

The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. All of the above are in line with daily practices at VMS along with our additional emphasis on sanitizing frequently touched areas. The winter season brings an increase in typical contagious viruses that can quickly spread to children and to our staff. It is important for all of our community to be reminded of our VMS illness policy (on p. 21-22 of the VMS Parent Handbook) and together work toward staying healthy and limit the spread of viruses.

With gratitude and good health,

Ann
ALL SCHOOL NEWS
IMPORTANT DATES:
2/3-2/7 Re-Enrollment Week for Existing VMS Families
2/12 Primary Breakfast: Alder and Birch
2/13 Primary Breakfast: Palm and Redbud
2/14 Primary Breakfast: Bay Laurel and Cedar
2/17 Presidents Day - School Closed
2/22 VMS Family Garden Workday, Saturday 9-noon
3/2 Summer Camp Registration Opens for VMS Families
3/11-3/15 VMS Online Auction Open
3/21 Annual Spring Gala and Auction
An email was sent this week on Monday, February 3, with detailed steps to secure your child's spot for next year.
Refer to this email to complete the quick and easy online re-enrollment process by this Friday, February 7 at 5pm!
If you have any questions, contact Elyssa in Admissions. ebishop@valleymontessorischool.com
The Gala Info Session went well last week! If you missed it and would like to help with the party of the year, let us know. Currently, we are seeking enticing items to showcase in the auction. If you have connections to any items or experiences that can help us create great auction packages, contact us or simply enter on the Gala website.
Questions? Feel free to contact Elizabeth or Rose.
Valley Montessori School
1273 N Livermore Ave Livermore CA 94551
925-455-8021 ValleyMontessoriSchool.com