This is an uncertain time for everyone, especially those with children. To keep up-to-date on the latest school news, we encourage you to stay connected to us online. As we receive more information, we’ll post it here and on our Facebook page. Parents can also call the office with any questions. We’re confident we will all get through this difficult time together.
Many parents are wondering when school will be back in session or if school-closure days will need to be made up. Parents also have many questions about the virus and the safety of their children and families.
Right now, we are following the state’s lead on the length of time the school will need to be closed. Unless the state tells us otherwise, we currently plan on reopening on Monday, March 30, and we will immediately let you know if that changes.
As for the virus itself, we have compiled a short list of frequently asked questions (FAQ), and we’re providing links to pertinent websites where more information is available.
How is the virus spread?
Covid-19 is most often spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, through personal contact with others or by touching surfaces that an infected person has touched and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, which are the main entry points for the virus to infect the body. To decrease the chance of transmission:
- Wash your hands often, and wash them for at least 20 seconds
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched by others
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Avoid contact with people who may be ill
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of Covid-19 are similar to any other flu, starting with cough, fever, respiratory issues and trouble breathing. While many people have mild symptoms with a full recovery, the virus can be extremely dangerous to those over 60 years old, those with compromised immune systems or other health issues like diabetes or asthma.
How long does it take between exposure and the appearance of symptoms?
Those exposed to the virus may show symptoms from two to 14 days after exposure. Some people who are infected, however, do not feel ill but are still able to transmit the disease to others.
My child is healthy, so why can’t they be in school?
Because the virus is so easily spread, one of the best ways to stop its progress is to cut down on contact between people. Children, who may only become mildly ill from the virus, could nonetheless infect others at a higher risk and for whom the virus could be fatal, including parents, grandparents, and teachers.
The number of cases in Arizona looks low, so why should I be worried?
Arizona’s number looks good at first glance; however, only a few hundred people have been tested for the virus. There could actually be hundreds or thousands of infected Arizonans. We just don’t know because so few tests are currently available. Expect the number of Arizona infections to rise dramatically as more residents can get tested.
If a family member feels sick, what should they do?
Those that think they may have COVID-19 should stay home, stay away from other family members, and contact their doctor. (Do NOT just show up at your doctor’s office.) Monitor your symptoms and, if you have trouble breathing, seek medical attention.
When will things get back to normal?
The current estimate is that COVID-19 will be with us for the next 18 months, which is how long it will take to get a vaccine. Until a vaccine is available, everyone will need to develop strategies and take precautions to avoid the virus.
There are probably many other questions that families will have, and we direct you to the following state, local, and medical websites for a better understanding of this virus:
