March 9, 2020
Dear Quaker Valley Families:
As media coverage of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) increases, and the first confirmed cases in eastern Pennsylvania emerge, it is understandable to have concerns and questions about the health of our school community. Our hearts go out to all of those who have been impacted.
The Quaker Valley School District considers the safety and well-being of our students, staff and families a top priority. As such, District Administration would like to assure our families that we are monitoring the situation closely, and continue to take into consideration the advisories issued from the Allegheny County Health Department and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At this time, we have not received any direct communication about a potential closure.
The most recent information provided by the CDC includes specific guidelines for travel to countries that have been designated with a
Level 3 Travel Health Notice. These travel updates are posted daily. At present, those countries include China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea. Anyone who has traveled to countries with a Level 3 designation is asked to self-quarantine for 14 days from the time they left the area, and to practice social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus. Those who are experiencing symptoms of illness should consult a medical professional. QVSD is asking families to review the information and consider all recommendations provided by the CDC and alert their school nurse, if they have traveled to one of these countries. Families are reminded that students who stay home for 14-day quarantine periods or who practice social distancing will receive excused absences. We request that any adult who traveled to such locations refrain from visiting our schools in person during this 14-day period.
Please note the CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel and large group gatherings, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. In addition, with Spring Recess scheduled for March 16-20, District Administration would like to share additional tips from the CDC for families who may be planning to travel:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water (20 seconds).
- Stay home when feeling sick.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your shoulder or sleeve.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Monitor the CDC's public health communications for the most up-to-date information while traveling.
QVSD Administration also would like to reassure our families that we continue to be diligent about cleanliness in our buildings while the Coronavirus is considered an active health threat. We will continue to thoroughly clean and disinfect all common areas in our buildings and facilities, and take guidance from the Allegheny County Health Department and CDC on additional steps that should be taken.
We thank our families for their continued commitment to the health and well-being of our community. If you have additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your building principals.
Sincerely,
Quaker Valley School District
