KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Though no cases of coronavirus have been reported in either Kansas or Missouri, school districts in the Kansas City metro say they are taking proactive steps to plan for a potential outbreak.
In a message to parents, the Shawnee Mission School District said it has a “comprehensive plan in place” to respond to coronavirus disease 2019, also known as COVID-19.
The district said it’s working closely with the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment on steps to take if any cases are reported in Kansas. It’s also following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preventing the virus.
Olathe Public Schools said the Johnson County health department and Kansas Department of Health and Environment are communicating guidance to school districts.
“The support and assistance of our school community when working to contain communicable diseases is vital,” the district said on its website. “Teaching the foundations of healthy habits in the home, self-reporting illness and keeping sick individuals home are important elements in the success of containing communicable diseases within a community. The diligence of our family partners in this effort is greatly appreciated.”
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Across the state line, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services also urges staff and students to stay home when sick and practice good hygiene habits, including hand washing and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces in classrooms.
North Kansas City Schools said the district is “closely monitoring” information on the spread of coronavirus by working with the Clay County Public Health Center.
In the event the health department recommends closing schools, the district plans to communicate with parents through normal methods. North Kansas City Schools says officials are also considering “one-to-one devices to conduct tele-school” while looking at other options for families who may not have access to WiFi.
More information on coronavirus can be found here.
