Dear Parents and Staff,

I want to assure you Teton School District 401 is carefully monitoring developments regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). We will continue to make every effort to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

WHERE WE ARE NOW

We are developing plans for multiple possible scenarios.

We recognize and share your concerns about this virus. The situation is rapidly changing; we acknowledge that what is decided today may need to be modified as additional information becomes available.

As of Thursday night, March 12, 2020, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the State of Idaho. News about any confirmed case in Idaho will be announced by Governor Little. Do not rely on news coming from other sources.

WHAT WE ARE DOING NOW

We are taking extra steps within our buildings and buses: increased cleanings, extended sanitizing, specifically concentrating on surfaces that are frequently touched.

Please understand that if a TSD staff member notices that a student is showing signs of illness, we will call parents to take them home.

We are calling on each of you to do your part. The best prevention is to:

  • wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
  • cover coughs and sneezes
  • limit person-to-person contact
  • monitor signs of illness symptoms
  • stay home if you are sick

POSSIBLE ACTIONS

Proactive planning means we as a district are considering multiple scenarios:

We may cancel school events; you will be notified directly by text and email.

A cancellation of school may be necessary; at this point, we cannot predict the length of such a closure.

The decision to close schools will not be taken lightly. We recognize that such a decision would have a large impact on our students, their families and our entire community.

Our intent is to maximize educational opportunities. This may mean on-line delivery methods, possibly providing school meals, and working with community partners.

We are working closely with fellow educators, state leaders, and regional and local health professionals.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

Please pay attention to information from the school district. We will use our existing communication messaging systems, including text alerts, emails, social media, and our website. Do not rely on “news” coming from any other source for school district information.

Here are resources that you may find helpful, including a statewide website for Idaho.

Teton School District 401 information:

If you are not receiving school district notifications by text and email, please ensure your contact information is updated with school secretaries.

Sincerely,

Monte Woolstenhulme

Superintendent