Dear Santiam Community,
The recent Coronavirus pandemic is creating a fast-paced changing environment. The latest guidance from the Governor’s Office, received midday today, is below. Some key highlights are:
- School will remain open and classes will remain functioning as normal.
- We have NO cases of Coronavirus in our schools at this time.
- We are cancelling/postponing all field trips and large group gatherings within the next 30 days.
- SJSHS parent teacher conferences will be held via phone or email this week (parents will receive a separate email regarding conference details).
- All athletic events are still being evaluated, yet as of now, all sports competitions will be limited to participants and essential personnel. No spectators allowed.
Along with our increased disinfecting and cleaning of the buildings, we will be complying with the Governor’s guidance below:
Here are the new guidelines for schools:
- In addition to previous guidance from the Oregon Health Authority, schools should, to
the extent possible, cancel or limit all non-essential gatherings and group activities,
including but not limited to:- Group parent meetings and parent education activities;
- Field trips;
- Competitions;
- Concerts and plays;
- Arena-based conferences;
- Group trainings and professional learning activities.
*These recommendations apply whether or not the activities are specifically sponsored by a
school or school district.
Schools should also:
- Limit interscholastic athletics and activities to student participants, essential
personnel, and credentialed media. This recommendation includes any
organized youth athletic programs, club sports, intramural activities and
competitions, whether or not they are affiliated with or sponsored by a school
or school district; - Coordinate with and make this information available to all onsite partners
(preschools, childcare centers, afterschool programs, etc.); - Consider staggering recess and lunch periods to reduce the number of students
coming into close contact with each other. - Students at high risk for severe illness should consult with their health care providers
about specific steps to lower their risk of illness. - School district employees and students, volunteers and visitors who are ill should stay home until their fever is gone and symptoms are better for at least 24 hours to stay
home. - Colleges and universities are also advised to follow these protocols, modified as
necessary to apply within a higher education setting.
We will continue to monitor the situation and keep our community informed. Thank you for your support as we navigate these new waters.
Sincerely,
Todd Miller, Superintendent