As we welcomed back staff and students today, this is a good time for educators and parents to partner together on simple, preventive steps that can help keep our students healthy and learning in the classroom. A little extra care now can make a big difference in reducing the spread of seasonal illnesses.

Here are a few helpful best practices that make a positive impact on student health and school attendance:

*Keep children home when they’re sick. If your child has a fever, vomiting, diarrhea or symptoms that make it hard to participate in class, please allow them to rest at home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication. 

*Encourage good handwashing. Soap, warm water and 30 seconds of scrubbing remain one of the most effective ways to prevent illness.

*Teach healthy habits. Covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding sharing drinks and limiting face-touching can reduce the spread of germs.

Seek medical guidance when needed. Healthcare decisions are personal, and your family’s provider is the best resource if you have concerns about symptoms or treatment options. Remember, MPS does offer free virtual visits with an OSU healthcare provider at school.  If your child is sick and in need of a free visit please contact our school nurse, Ruth Rogers. 

At school, we are taking proactive steps as well, including regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces, reinforcing healthy habits with students, and monitoring any trends we see in absences or reported illnesses. We will continue to follow guidance from local health partners and communicate any updates that may be helpful to families.