From the Desk of the Head of School- February 28, 2020
Dear Harding Academy Community,
As you are likely aware, this week the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) held a press conference on the current status of the coronavirus (COVID-19). As the CDC emphasized, there is not currently a coronavirus pandemic in the United States. However, we want to assure families that Harding Academy has policies and procedures in place to ensure that we are prepared to act swiftly and proactively if the need arises. Our leadership team and nurse continue to monitor the situation daily and are in close contact with local and national health agencies. In addition, the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) are working hard to make informed recommendations for best practices and procedures, of which we are closely attuned. Our leadership team is also refining our Crisis Management Plans to ensure it is inclusive of all potential scenarios, including protocols in the unlikely event of school closures and options for distance learning.
We are also thinking ahead regarding the impact that Spring Break travel plans may have in the context of the coronavirus. We ask that all families take the time to review the travel advisories in effect as it relates to the current status of the coronavirus outbreak. It is important to remember that handling the spread of a contagion like the coronavirus is a primary task for public health agencies, and any directives from the World Health Organization, CDC, or local governmental organizations should be followed.
At the moment, the most effective way to stay healthy and minimize the spread of any infectious disease, including the seasonal flu, is to follow basic health best practices, including washing hands thoroughly, covering up coughs/sneezes, and keeping students who are feeling ill at home until they are symptom-free for 24 hours. We are also coordinating with our facilities staff to take additional preventative measures across campus, including additional cleaning of classroom surfaces and reminding students of effective hand-washing techniques.
Following are additional resources that are useful in navigating the situation as it has been unfolding:
Inspiring The Mind • Nurturing The Spirit