Republic Families and Employees,

As we head into spring break next week we wanted to provide an update regarding how the district continues to monitor the potential spread of coronavirus, COVID-19 along with the disinfecting practices in our district. In addition, we have created a web page that we will continue to update throughout this situation that includes resources as well as event impact information: https://www.republicschools.org/healthupdates .

We continue to communicate with the Springfield-Greene County Health Department, Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management and area school districts to make sure we are implementing recommended procedures from state and federal agencies. Like most organizations and schools, we are currently conducting school as normal. However, we are implementing risk assessments internally for many “what if” situations that could arise over the coming weeks. We are also developing alternative strategies and contingency plans should they be needed. 

No Current Plans for Closure
At this time, we do not expect a school closing per the recommendation of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department. In addition, if there were to be a closing we are awaiting information from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on whether or not missed time would need to be made up.

Field trips, any travel outside of the district and school hosted events are being evaluated and determined on a case by case basis using guidance from the CDC along with state and local health departments. We are hoping for as few disruptions as possible to normalcy and our work to “prepare each student for a successful future.” However, the overall health and safety of our students and employees is the primary concern, so we will adjust our practices as needed to ensure it. 

Prevention Measures
In regards to disinfecting practices, over spring break the district will be doing a thorough cleaning of all facilities which will mean the buildings will be restricted to only essential personnel and unavailable to employees and students. If there should be a need to open the FEMA Safe Room at Sweeny Elementary due to inclement weather, we will do so. Therefore, it is highly recommended that students and employees take all important items home with them over spring break. Specifically, taking home assigned Chromebooks is suggested so the district is able to effectively communicate with you . 

Each year during cold and flu season we increase the frequency of our custodial efforts to prevent the spread of germs. With the concern over flu outbreaks within our schools and the possibility of coronavirus, COVID-19 spreading into our area, below are some of the extra measures we are taking to keep our schools clean.  
  • Communicating the importance of hand-washing and general healthy hygiene habits with our students and families, and providing extra intentional hand-washing opportunities.
  • Supplying extra hand sanitizer, sanitizing tabs/wipes, disinfectant bombs and paper towels throughout the district. 
  • Providing extra disinfecting wipes for libraries, offices, tech rooms/labs and in-room technology devices.
  • Disinfecting common areas and surfaces multiple times per day.
  • Using sanitizing sprayers on all buses daily.
All of our buildings utilize electrostatic sanitizing sprayers on hard surfaces. These are also utilized on school buses. Our cafeterias utilize the same sprayer with a food safe disinfecting tablet. 

Our custodial department would like to thank you for your help in this process. We have noticed a much larger use of paper towels indicating students are washing their hands more frequently. Another way you can continue to help is to encourage students to avoid touching their faces as much as possible along with classmates. 

Travel Guidance
  • As Spring Break begins, the health department advises staff, students and parents to be especially cautious in making travel decisions and to follow the latest guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • The US has upgraded most of Europe to a Level 3. This means that "travelers returning from the specified countries in Europe must stay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health, and practice social distancing." If you are planning to travel to Europe or another Level 3 country, we’re asking both students and employees to inform your school administrator so we can plan for this.
  • For those who choose to travel, it is advised that prevention tips are followed. Upon return, it is important for individuals to monitor any change in their health and to notify the health department with questions or concerns.

Health Department Contact Information and Resources
Health concerns regarding COVID-19 may be directed to the Springfield-Greene County Health Department at 417-874-1211.

 
Coronavirus Disease Resources:

As this situation develops, we will keep you informed with any new information.

Sincerely,

Josey McPhail
Director of Communications
Republic School District