Will schools remain open after the holidays?
At this time, WCSD plans on resuming both in-person and virtual instruction between Thanksgiving and Winter Break. The district does not have a predetermined number of positive cases that would automatically result in a school closure. The decision to switch to distance learning would most likely occur if proper staffing was not possible. In an effort to be proactive, we encourage all families to prepare an emergency plan should a school be forced to transition to distance learning as these situations are often unpredictable and could occur on short notice.
Can staff and/or students return to school if they travel out of the country over the holidays?
Yes. If traveling to one of the “high-risk” countries, it may be recommended to self-quarantine for 14 days, but this will be on a case by case basis.
What should parents do if their child tests positive for COVID-19 or is exposed to someone who has tested positive over the holidays?
Parents should notify their child’s principal via email as soon as possible to allow the school to respond appropriately. Please do not wait until school resumes to report a positive case or known exposure.
Should parents have their children tested for COVID-19 before returning to school?
That is a parental decision. However, any student or staff who has taken a COVID-19 test must stay out of school until the test results are confirmed. Also, please know that you cannot test out of a mandated quarantine as required from being exposed.
What is the CDC recommending regarding holiday travel?
The CDC has provided
travel restrictions as well as
specific recommendations for holiday celebrations. Some types of travel and activities can put you at higher risk for exposure to COVID-19 (see list below). If you have participated in higher-risk activities or think that you may have been exposed before or during your trip, take extra precautions for 14 days after you arrive
to protect others. - Stay home as much as possible.
- Avoid being around people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
- Consider getting tested for COVID-19.
What activities are considered a higher risk?
Here are examples of activities and situations that can increase your risk of exposure to COVID-19:
Being in an area that is experiencing high levels of COVID-19, including destinations with a Level 3 Travel Health Notice.
- Attending large social gatherings.
- Being in large crowds in restaurants, bars, airports, bus and train stations or movie theaters.
- Traveling through airports, bus stations, train stations and rest stops.
What should be done after returning home from traveling?
Regardless of where you traveled or what you did during your trip, take these actions to protect others from getting sick:
- When around others, stay at least 6 feet from other people who are not from your household. It is important to do this everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.
- Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when you are outside of your home.
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
- Watch your health and look for symptoms of COVID-19. Stay home if you start showing any signs or symptoms and contact your healthcare provider.