Winnetka Public Schools Update on COVID-19

Dear Families,

The Winnetka Public Schools, in partnership with New Trier Township Districts, has been carefully monitoring developments regarding the global spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). While at this time we have no local cases, I wanted to proactively share with you the steps the District is taking to keep our campuses safe as well as the plans we have in place should we be inform ed of cases of COVID-19. Our primary concern is student and staff safety and wellness. Our District Nurse is in regular contact with public health officials regarding this topic and other health-related matters.

The primary way for students and staff to avoid influenza, COVID-19, and other viruses is hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if they have symptoms and/or a fever. Principals are aware of the need to be flexible with students for making up work after an absence due to illness. We want to make it as easy as possible for families to make the decision to keep students home from school if they are not feeling well. If you have concerns about missed work due to illness, please contact your student's teacher.

As a matter of standard practice, our Custodial staff disinfects bathrooms, cleans classrooms, floors, and common areas each day. They regularly wipe down surfaces such as desks and tables; cafeteria tables and drinking fountains are disinfected daily. We have recently shared reminders with families on when to keep children home from school. Please reference the District's Health Guidelines document for that information:
https://www.winnetka36.org/cms/lib/IL50000444/Centricity/Domain/79/Health%20guidelines%2020-21.pdf . Additionally, please inform your child's school nurse if your child has experienced the illnesses referenced in the District Health Guidelines.

Given the quickly changing nature of both the spread of this virus and the suggested response, our developing plans include the possibility of a large number of absences, and short- and long-term plans for closing our campuses should the need arise. The Cook County Department of Public Health and Illinois Department of Public Health are developing more specific guidance as the situation evolves, and we are working closely with them as we develop our plans. If you plan to travel over spring break, please refer to the Center for Disease Control travel guidelines .

We will continue to keep you informed as this situation evolves. Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students and staff safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Dr. Trisha Kocanda

Superintendent

The Winnetka Public Schools community empowers every student to flourish in

an innovative, experiential environment. We support and challenge all learners

to actively engage in continual growth and achievement to make

a meaningful difference in the world.