Coronavirus Update 3-5-20

We continue to review conditions in our community based upon the advice of local public health agencies, a practice that will continue in the days and weeks ahead.  No one knows what those days and weeks will bring, so we are prepared to adapt as circumstances change.  Two things to note at this time:

  1. Some public events of the school and parish are being cancelled / rescheduled at this time in the month of March.  Our calendar will continually be updated as events change, as well as communications event organizers and in our newsletter.
  2. At this time there are no cases of COVID-19 in our school.  We are open.

Statement from the King County Public Health:

Public Health is not recommending closing schools at this time unless there has been a confirmed case in your school. The reason we are not recommending school closures at this time is because children have not been shown to be a high risk group for serious illness from this virus. In addition, when some schools briefly closed during the H1N1 influenza pandemic, we learned that many children still gathered in group settings and still had exposure to one another. As much as possible, children should be allowed to carry on with their education and normal activities.

Some children have underlying health conditions, such as weakened immune systems, that put them at higher risk. Caregivers of children with underlying health conditions should consult with healthcare providers about whether their children should stay home.

Be reassured that we are working with students and staff, on a daily basis, to adhere to official health guidelines. We are also preparing for possibilities that could include short or long-term closures, in case they become necessary.  Thank you for continuing to take the precautions you need in your family and communicating with school regarding any and all absences.

Talking to your Kids About the Coronavirus
With the recent concerns about the Coronavirus in King County, many parents and families are wondering what to say to their kids about the virus. Here are some tips about what to say to your kids:
  1. Kids are more afraid when they don’t know the facts.
  2. Deal with your own anxiety about the virus. Kids will take your cues on how anxious they should feel.
  3. Be developmentally appropriate.
  4. Focus on what you and they are doing to stay safe and have good hygiene.
  5. Be reassuring to them.
  6. Stick to your routine but tell them possible closures are positive and not a sign of doom.
  7. Keep talking and tell them you will update them when you learn more.
  8. Print off this cartoon for them to read and learn about the virus (from NPR):
More resources: