Staying Healthy at School
We all know this school year will look a little bit different than in years past. There is a lot of confusion surrounding the coronavirus, in how we can prevent the spread and how it affects different people. However, throughout the state, schools are working closely with public health experts to make plans and preparations for a healthy learning environment.
We all want this to be a safe, successful school year which does not have to come to an unexpected halt. For this to happen, schools need all staff, families and entire communities working together and learning to adapt together so our kids and educators can stay healthy.
Students have been out of school for a long time, so returning is an even bigger transition this year. Families may experience a wide range of emotions about what’s to come. Be sure to connect with your child and let them know it’s normal to feel fear, stress or even anxiety during this time.
Turning preventive measures into good, solid habits, we can stop the virus from spreading in our school systems. These include:
- Staying home when we feel sick.
- It’s more important than ever to evaluate your child’s health every morning. Before they even leave the house, check for a fever or chills, cough, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, new loss of taste or smell, new runny nose or congestion, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, sore throat. If your child is suffering from any of these symptoms, talk to a medical professional and stay home from school.
- If your student is at school and starts feeling ill, it’s important to tell the teacher immediately. Protecting yourself and others is incredibly important this year, so speak up.
- Practicing social distancing by staying at least six feet from others.
- Washing our hands often for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
- Trying not to touch our faces.
- Wearing a face mask or fabric face covering.
- Avoiding touching frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs or railings.
