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Coronavirus Information and Letter to Parents

The health, safety and well-being of our students and staff is the top priority of the Apollo-Ridge School District.  As there continues to be escalated discussion and concern regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), we want to share that we have been in proactive communication with the PA Department of Health (DOH), our neighboring school districts, and local officials in order to receive the most up-to-date and relevant guidance as possible.  We also refer to updates and guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), which provides guidance not only to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but other respiratory diseases as we get through the cold and flu season.
 
Please know that we will continue to follow all guidance set forth by the CDC and DOH. We continue to be very diligent in our cleaning practices, and will be continuing to plan and prepare for any future steps that may be necessary.  While many questions exist regarding if we should ever have to close our school due to the spread of the virus, please know any such decision would be made in collaboration with the DOH who will provide appropriate guidance.  We are also preparing take-home packets with take-home assignments and information in case we would be instructed to close for any extended time on short notice.  While no confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been found in our region at the time of this letter, these steps are simply to be proactive and prepared.  These assignments will be able to be found on the Middle School Homepage and also on each individual teacher's website should the need arise.  
 
Any updates or information will be disseminated via our automated calling system and/or placed on the District  Website.  Any message sent via automated call will also be placed on the website, so if you would happen to miss the message it can be found on www.apolloridge.com.  Also, please be sure to follow the Middle School Twitter feed available on Twitter (@ARMiddleSchool).  You can also view our Twitter feed on the Middle School Website as well.  
 
Below is guidance provided by the CDC for prevention. Please note – preventing exposure is the key whenever possible.  If your child is sick or exhibiting symptoms, they should stay home!  Also listed are additional websites that may provide appropriate resources.  Should you have any questions regarding the virus, please contact your physician.  We appreciate your cooperation and support in keeping our students and community healthy and safe!
 
Prevention
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.  However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your mouth with your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
  • Wash your hands frequently using soap and water.  Click here for a video on how to wash your hands properly.  (Hand Washing Video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d914EnpU4Fo Source: Hand Washing Video
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