HCPS Announces 3 Changes Due To New Coronavirus

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Harford County Public Schools announced a few changes Tuesday related to the evolving situation around the new coronavirus. Trips may be impacted and schedules may be delayed, according to the announcement.

Out-of-state field trips and staff business trips are canceled, Harford County Public Schools officials advised. Trips within the state of Maryland are not impacted. The decision came the day after Gov. Larry Hogan advised state employees that they were not to travel out of Maryland on business.

During the school day itself, officials said there may be delays or schedule changes to allow for more hand-washing time.

Students and staff will be given multiple opportunities to wash their hands with soap and water throughout the school day, particularly but not limited to the time before and after meals.

"The expectation to allow time for students to wash their hands with soap and water throughout the day may cause delays or changes to schedules," according to the statement from Harford County Public Schools, which said: "We ask for your patience and understanding at this time."

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Finally, school officials said programs and awards for perfect attendance have been suspended. Harford County Public Schools Superintendent Sean Bulson announced this Monday during a news conference about the Harford County woman who has the new coronavirus, so Tuesday's guidance was codifying the message.

"We remind staff, students, and guests that we ask you to stay home from school if you have a fever of 100 degrees or higher," Harford County Public Schools said in a statement. "Remember that you should not return to work or school until you have been fever- free without the use of fever reducing medication for at least 24 hours or as directed by your healthcare provider."

See Also:

• MD Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know
• Harford Woman With New Coronavirus Traveled In Turkey: Gov. Hogan
• HCPS After Coronavirus In Harford: Stay Home If You Have A Fever