Nashville is the latest city to have a confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19). This is a cause for concern, vigilance, and science-based instruction – not panic.
MNPS has been working closely with Metro Public Health Department (MPHD), which follows guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Center (CDC) and the State Health Department to monitor the situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).
We want to emphasize important ways to be safe and prevent illness from spreading. Below is a list of common-sense ways to stop the spread of germs and sickness. ALL teachers will be reviewing the following information students today and throughout the week. Parents, please talk with your children about these tips as well:
- Any child who is sick at school should be sent home.
- Teach your students to wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand rub. (Video: https://youtu.be/d914EnpU4Fo)
- Teach students to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of your elbow.
- Teach your children to stay away from people who are sick.
- People who are sick should stay home from work or school until they are better.
District staff are formulating contingency plans in the event schools are required to close for an extended period of time. We will continue to work with MPHD and monitor the situation.
Below are resources available for staff, students and families. Although some of the resources address the flu, the same protective measures should be taken for COVID-19. Routine good cleaning and disinfecting daily is critical.
- Everyday preventive actions are steps that students/staff can take to help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illness, like flu: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/everyday_preventive.pdf
- To share with parents and families: https://www.familiesfightingflu.org