Westview Staff, Students, and Parents,
The intention of this correspondence is to relay understanding and communication.
Westview has been following recent media reports and information from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The Federal Government and several Indiana governmental agencies are working closely with both national and regional public health partners to respond to this threat.
Some parents and students might be worried about this virus and how it may impact our schools and communities. Be assured that we are aware of these concerns and are proactively working to insure our schools are safe and clean for all students and staff. The safety of our students and employees is paramount. This is an emerging situation and we will provide updated information as it becomes available and relevant to us.
How can our whole community help with the spread of the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 with everyday preventive measures?
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms
Stay home when you are sick
Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, if you don’t have tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
How can parents help?
Again, our school nurses and staff will be working with students to promote good hygiene and to keep everyone healthy and safe. We also work with our custodians to ensure our schools receive thorough cleaning every day. Parents are asked for help in reinforcing healthy practices at home with children.
Also, parents are asked to not reinforce untrue stereotypes, baseless claims, or fear when talking to your children.
Let’s work together on this and take the common sense approach describe above. In the past, our community has experienced similar health issues with measles, chicken pox, H1N1, and whooping cough. If you have questions call your doctor or school nurse. Our school nurses are working closely with our county health department.
Sincerely,
Randy Miller