Coronavirus Information for BV Families

We have a shared responsibility in protecting our students, staff and community from the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The purpose of this communication is to share facts, as well as information and travel guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE).

 

SPRING BREAK TRAVEL

As Spring Break approaches, Blue Valley Schools is recommending that everyone thoughtfully examine their personal travel plans and take precautions or make changes where necessary. The district urges everyone to heed all travel warnings related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and follow all federal regulations when reentering the country, including medical screenings, quarantines and self-reporting. 

In the current environment, it is entirely conceivable that you may end up in a quarantined zone, or that a country you visit will be added to the CDC list, requiring you to self-quarantine for up to 14 days on your return. To help provide a safe environment for all students, staff and families, please report if you have had close contact with others who have returned from travel to at-risk countries and/or otherwise have potential exposure to the virus. Blue Valley will carefully follow any and all recommendations from national, state and local health officials.

 

PREVENTION

As a reminder, we are asking staff and students to remain at home if they are ill. Students should not return to classes, practices/games or any co-curricular activities until they are symptom-free (without the aid of medication) for 24 hours. The district also encourages families to practice preventative hygiene when traveling including:

  • Avoid contact with sick people.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Clean your hands often by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60%-95% alcohol. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Pay attention to your health during travel and for 14 days after you return.
    • If you feel sick with a fever or cough or have difficulty breathing:
      • Take your temperature.
      • Call your healthcare provider immediately. 
      • Avoid contact with others.

 

PLANNING

In the case of a Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in our area, Blue Valley would follow the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s (JCDHE) lead on any quarantines, closures or other health measures needed. The district’s focus would first be on ensuring the safety of students and staff, and then on how education would continue. Please know the district is planning for an eLearning solution if the need should arise. 

 

While the risk of widespread community transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Johnson County and the metro area remains low, we would ask that families begin thinking about childcare arrangements in the event the district is asked to close and/or transition to eLearning opportunities. Again, Blue Valley will be following guidance from JCDHE related to quarantines and closures.

 

Thank you for partnering with us to protect the health of our students, families and staff.

 

Blue Valley Schools