FOR THE TOMAHAWK LEADER

TOMAHAWK – Tomahawk School District Administrator Terry Reynolds issued the following letter to parents regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) on Wednesday, March 4:

“Dear Parents:

“The School District of Tomahawk values the health and well-being of our students, staff and families. We are committed throughout the year to promote healthy schools. Safety is always our priority.

“As the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) share more information about COVID-19, or the coronavirus, we want you to know that we are regularly in contact with the Lincoln County Health Department. Our school nurse and school health services staff work alongside school administrators to plan and respond to emerging communicable disease concerns following the guidance of the public health department and CDC recommendations.

“Schools are being encouraged to update their pandemic plans given that the CDC is recommending Americans prepare for the likely spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). District leadership continues to discuss our school district preparedness plan, and our district is ready to respond to increased illness in our schools should we experience that. If we have a situation of significantly increased illness, or if there were local cases of COVID-19, we will work closely with Public Health officials and will follow and adhere to their directions.

“A continued theme from public health officials is that it is currently flu and respiratory disease season and getting vaccinated for influenza, taking everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed is recommended. CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• Help your students to wash their hands well
• Do not drop off your sick child at school
• Stay home when you’re sick
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
• Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms

“Links below to the Centers for Disease Control information about COVID-19:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html

“Links to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services information about COVID-19:

• https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/covid-19.htm
• https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/outbreaks/index.htm

“Link to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction webpage:

• https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/2019-novel-coronavirus

“The COVID-19 situation is constantly evolving and changing. We understand there is uncertainty involved in this situation. We also wanted to stress the importance of avoiding assumptions or stereotypes about who may be sick. We plan to keep you informed as needed. We encourage you to contact Trina Sorce, our school district school nurse, or local public health department if you have further questions.

Sincerely,

Terry Reynolds

District Administrator

School District of Tomahawk.”