The St. Joseph School District is communicating with staff and families about proactive plans for any potential impact on the school district due to the coronavirus.
There are no confirmed cases of coronavirus or COVID-19 in Buchanan County at this time.
In a message to families, School District Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says for more than 10 years, they have had a pandemic crisis action plan in place which is reviewed and updated regularly.
Van Zyl adds that their maintenance department has scheduled a deep disinfection of schools for next week while the buildings are empty during spring break, in addition to regular cleaning procedures.
Apple Bus Company has a targeted plan for cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting buses used to transport students.
As a proactive measure, instructional materials and district-issued technology will be sent home with students at the end of the day Thursday for use only in the event of an extended absence.
Van Zyl says the district is communicating regularly with local and state partners as well as following guidance from the CDC. He encourages families to continue following the same precautions recommended during flu season including frequent hand washing and staying home from school and work when you are sick.
Anyone will questions is encouraged to contact please contact the school district’s Health Services Department at (816) 671-4000.