Dear Bennett Valley Families and Staff,
School safety and student and staff health are top priorities for us! Today, we were informed that a private school in Healdsburg canceled classes after someone in the school community came in contact with a patient diagnosed with the Coronavirus. In addition, we received the attached press release regarding a second case of Coronavirus (COVID 19) in Sonoma County. To date, we have had NO reports of any staff or students who have tested positive or been exposed to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus. The recommendation is to remain calm and do what we can to stop the spread. Last week we began implementation of our advanced cleaning protocol for flu (which includes frequent cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces) in our classrooms, door handles, restrooms, cafeterias, and other public spaces. The Sonoma County Department of Health Services (DHS), the lead agency in the response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), and the Sonoma County Office of Education have been working together on plans, protocols, and in providing timely information, support and resources to schools. I will keep you informed as I receive information. You can find Coronavirus resources for schools on the SCOE website and additional information on the DHS website DHS website. The DHS website has a link to specific information for schools: https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/Health/Disease-Control/Coronavirus/Information-for-Schools/
How To Reduce Your Risk
Local health officials urge practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of becoming infected with a respiratory virus, such as the flu or coronavirus. This includes:
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes and face
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeved elbow
• Stay home when ill
• Get a flu shot. If you have not received your flu shot yet, it’s not too late; annual flu shots are the best protection from flu, which still sickens and kills thousands of people in the US every year.
Source: Sonoma County Department of Health Services
Take care!
Sue Field, Ed.D.
Superintendent
