Dear Superintendents,
At a press conference this morning, representatives for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shared that the coronavirus almost certainly will begin spreading in communities in the United States, and Americans should begin preparations now. During this press conference, a CDC director commented that parents should "ask your children’s schools about their plans for school dismissals or school closures. Ask about plans for teleschool." As such, you may see an increase in questions from parents about coronavirus.
SDCOE is working with county health officials to establish protocols for schools in the event that coronavirus does spread in San Diego. More information will be shared as this plan develops.
You may be also aware that the disease has spread to other countries and the CDC has issued travel warnings for several countries in Asia and Europe. It may be appropriate to share information about these warnings with parents as spring break approaches.
In the meantime, SDCOE Program Specialist for Nursing Corinne McCarthy receives regular updates regarding coronavirus from state and local officials and is providing these updates to school nurses across the county.
This is a fluid situation. In the short-term, we’ve created a
customizable letter for parents
(in English and Spanish) that includes current information on the coronavirus, addresses possible concerns, and provides tips to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
SDCOE has also posted some guidelines and resources on
our website
, including information about the use of masks and when students should stay home from school. In addition, San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency has information on
its website
and the L
os Angeles County Department of Public Health
has FAQs available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
We will share additional information as it becomes available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need additional assistance in the meantime.
Sincerely,
Paul
Dr. Paul Gothold
San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
email: paul.gothold@sdcoe.net
phone: 858-292-3514
