Valley View School Dist. Issues Statement On Coronavirus Concerns

From Valley View School District 365U:

The following is the text of a message from Valley View School District 365U Asst. Superintendent Mrs. Rachel Kinder shared with VVSD families on March 10.

We continue to monitor information regarding coronavirus provided by the Will County Health Department and all guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control. We are aware that concern is growing nationally and locally and that this is a continually evolving matter.

At this time, we have not been alerted to either a suspected, or confirmed case of coronavirus in our area. If we are notified of a change in this situation, we will certainly share that information with the VVSD community and determine an appropriate response, acting in accordance with guidance from IDPH and WCHD. Please remember the best sources of information are public health agencies and the School District.

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We will continue to follow the direction provided by public health organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. The health and safety of our students, staff, and visitors to our school buildings is our top priority.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), at this time, the health risk to the general public from coronavirus in Illinois remains low. Currently, the IDPH recommends schools hold classes and events as usual, and follow routine cleaning and disinfecting procedures. Rest assured that no matter the circumstances, we exercise care with cleanliness in all of our facilities and encourage proper hygiene habits by all.

The IDPH also recommends the best way to protect against coronavirus is by taking the same everyday precautions against getting sick in general. These include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then dispose of the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

To see the complete recommendations to schools from IDPH, please click here. VVSD will continue to closely monitor IDPH recommendations regarding coronavirus and will continue to follow their guidance.

The most accurate and up-to-date resource for coronavirus information is the IDPH website; their “What you need to know” document can be found here (en español). In addition, the IDPH can answer your questions about coronavirus on their hotline at (800) 889-3931 or via email at DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV

Thank you for your efforts in helping keep our community healthy.

Rachel Kinder, Ed.S
Assistant Superintendent of Schools
Valley View School District 365U

To learn more about the Coronavirus situation in Illinois, please see this regularly-updated article.

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