Coronavirus Update for SCOE Staff

02/28/2020 -

Dear SCOE Staff,

You've likely been following the news of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in California. We wanted to take a moment to provide you an update on what SCOE is doing to help local school districts prepare for the event of this illness spreading into our community. It's important to note that, at this time, the risk to Sonoma County residents is low. However, given the possible case of "community transmission" in Solano County, we want to be sure we are prepared.

We are encouraging schools to focus on best practices for preventing the spread of disease, including regularly cleaning commonly touched surfaces, asking students and staff who are sick to stay home, and reminding all students and staff to cough into their sleeves and wash their hands frequently. More information on these best practices is available at the county health website. These are also the best ways to protect yourself and your family from the spread of Coronavirus as well as the flu and common cold. If you are feeling sick or have a fever, please stay home and contact your supervisor if you have any questions or concerns.

In case you are asked how schools are preparing, here are some of SCOE's efforts to date:

• Meeting between the county health officer and superintendents (Feb. 3)
• Coordination with the county health officer and office of emergency services to provide guidance memo to schools (sent Feb. 5, 26, and 27)

Our ongoing efforts include:

• Reaching out to the county health department to set up an additional meeting for superintendents to address current concerns
• Regular communication with health department and county office of emergency services

We will keep you updated with any changes. Together we can work to keep our schools and workplaces healthy!