Tredyffrin/Easttown School District Outlines Coronavirus Plans

TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN, PA — With concerns growing around the novel coronavirus, the Tredyffirn/Easttown School District is outlining to the community how it is moving ahead as the illness spreads in the United States and internationally.

District Superintendent Dr. Robert Gusick penned a letter to district families on how it is responding to the potential threat.

See Gusick's lettter below:

Dear T/E Staff and Families,

The T/E School District understands there may be questions regarding the recent outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) and how our schools are responding, and I wish to provide a follow-up to the District's January 27 communication.

While most authorities recognize this could change, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania at this time. TESD administrators have been in regular contact with county and state health agencies to receive the most current updates. We will follow their guidelines and directives for action and communications.

School nurses have been updated with information on how to respond to potential cases, and we have obtained necessary supplies. Our custodial staff continues to make surface cleaning a point of emphasis and are engaged in cyclical "deep cleaning" for added sanitization. Adequate handwashing facilities and alcohol-based hand sanitizers continue to be available throughout the schools for student and staff use.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the immediate risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low at this time. Yet, in our connected world, the potential for spreading infectious disease is always a concern. There are recommended practices that can help reduce the spread of all diseases.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health summarizes the most effective ways to limit the exposure to viruses through the three C's:

• Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow. Do not use your hands.
• Clean surfaces often, such as countertops, light switches, cell phones, and other frequently touched areas.
• Contain illness. If sick, stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours or longer as instructed by your medical provider.

Please consider clarifying with your children that symptoms such as coughing or sneezing are most likely indicative of conditions other than COVID-19. However, you may decide to have such symptoms examined by a physician. Also, it is important for students to avoid stigmatizing populations because of a perceived association with any disease.

The health of all members of our school community is important to me and all TESD staff. Further information about the nature of coronavirus, travel advisories, and guidelines for health and safety at home and in school, can be found at the links below.

Sincerely,
Dr. Richard Gusick
Superintendent of Schools

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• PA Department of Health
• Chester County Health Department