Dear Parents/Guardians,

We are writing to address the coronavirus, which has received widespread media attention in recent days.

At present, there are fewer than 60 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States and none in Pennsylvania. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) are advising schools to prepare for the virus’ spread by stepping up prevention efforts.

First and foremost, we are reminding staff and students to follow CDC recommendations for preventing the spread of any respiratory illness. The recommendations are:

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when sick
• Cough or sneeze into an elbow or use a tissue and immediately place it in the trash
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

Along with our usual efforts to maintain a clean, healthy learning environment:

• LCTI’s school nurses will carefully monitor students who report to the Health Room with symptoms of respiratory illness.
• Custodial staff will be doubly vigilant in their daily cleaning duties.
• We will increase the availability of hand sanitizer for staff and students.
• We will post flyers about respiratory illness prevention throughout the school and on our digital signage system.

Concerns about health situations such as this can cause anxiety for children and family members. As parents and educators, we want to protect our children and ensure their safety. It may be helpful to note that, currently, the likelihood of someone in the United States becoming sick with coronavirus is very low. Most at risk are those who have traveled to China or who are caring for people already sick with the virus.

If you or a family member become sick, please note that the CDC info sheet to provide guidance: What to Do if You Are Sick with Coronavirus. We will continue to update you with our rapid notification system when pertinent information becomes available. And, of course, we will immediately notify parents and guardians if a confirmed case of coronavirus involves a staff member or student. Additionally, resources will be posted on LCTI’s website, lcti.org.

Thank you for working together with us to see that accurate information is shared and preventive steps are taken. Together we will navigate this concern. The health and safety of our students and staff is of utmost importance to all of us at LCTI.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact LCTI Health Officer Danielle Sodl at 610-799-1325 and/or Grace Loeffler, Director of Academic and Special Programs, at 610-799-1358.

Thank you for your attention regarding this important information.