There is a well-publicized COVID-19 outbreak moving across the world including the United States and North Carolina. It is an evolving situation and a life or death matter for a small percentage of those who become infected. Responding to COVID-19 is a little like an early morning cold front entering the mountains. We can see what it is doing in other places. However, there is no way to know what is actually going to occur locally until the front is here. Like early morning winter cold fronts, we need to take some action in advance. When necessary, we adjust.
On Friday, I am attending the monthly Regional Superintendents’ Council. Next Thursday, we are meeting with a newly formed local taskforce with emergency management and public health. Our goal, is to be safe and avoid unreasonable overreactions. In the meantime, Dr. Putnam and the support services staff are reviewing cleaning procedures, schedules, supplies, and materials. Mrs. Barker and the curriculum staff are working on instructional support plans should we be forced to close schools.
We are in the process of cancelling field trips to areas with known COVID-19 cases (New Orleans, etc.) and sites where there are significantly large crowds from across the world (Disney World, etc.). We believe it is currently safe to travel in most of North Carolina. Many areas to our west and south also seem to be safe areas for travel. We will make case-by-case field trip decisions in these areas.
We realize our decisions often have a personal impact on students, staff, parents, and the community. I spoke on the telephone earlier this week with a grandmother raising three school age children. She understands the COVID-19 danger to her children is minimal. She also understands if they bring COVID-19 home to her, she might not be able to care for them.
Concerns are warranted. Responses should focus on reasonable steps designed to promote safety. Please encourage everyone to use universal precautions:
- Frequently wash your hands
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue and throw the tissue in the trash
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with an appropriate disinfectant.
- If you become ill, seek medical help for treatment and possible quarantine procedures.
This link (https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-response-north-carolina) provides the latest state updates on COVID-19. It contains a wealth of information for people interested in COVID-19. You can also call 866-462-3821 for additional information.
Contact: Dr. Bill Nolte, Superintendent