February 28, 2020
 
Dear St. Isidore Families,
 
At St. Isidore School, the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and families are paramount. This week, some members of our community have expressed concern to me about the Coronavirus, which has affected thousands of people globally. We want to let you know that we are monitoring the situation and working closely with the Diocese of Oakland and Center of Disease Control through the Contra Costa Health Services Department, with the goal of preventing or reducing the potential spread of the virus. We are at low risk of being affected. 
 
Here are some ways to prevent the spread of any virus, at home and at school:
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. It may help to sing the A-B-C song in your head as you wash – that takes about 20 seconds. 
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available. 
  • If you are sick, always cover your coughs and sneezes using a tissue or the crook of your elbow; wash your hands after using a tissue to wipe your nose or mouth. 
  • Students should ALWAYS stay home from school until they are completely well and fever free for 24 hours. Consult with your doctor as to when your child should return to school.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your unwashed hands. 
  • Contra Costa residents should contact their healthcare providers if they have symptoms and had close contact with someone with symptoms who traveled in the last 14 days from China.

St. Isidore School is taking extra precautionary actions, including:
  •     Extra wipes and hand sanitizer are being provided in every classroom.
  • All student desks and chairs will be cleaned daily.
  • Students will use hand sanitizer as they enter each classroom.
  • Nightly cleaning staff will clean door knobs and open surfaces, and disinfect the nurse’s office daily.
  • Student will wash their hands or use hand sanitizer prior to lunch daily. 
  • During mass we will not hold hands during prayer and there will be only a verbal sign of Peace. (For more information regarding church practices, please contact the parish office.) Students will not receive the Blood of Christ.

We will communicate with you as more information becomes available. We invite you to review the information from Contra Costa County, including their updated  Coronavirus webpage and their  Frequently Asked Questions . Thank you, as always, for your cooperation and partnership.


Sincerely,
Maria Ward, Principal