March 10, 2020: Update from Sean McMannon, Superintendent

WSD Families & Staff, I was notified late Monday night that three of our students and two parents stayed in a hotel in Boston over the weekend and later found out that there were confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the hotel two weeks prior to their stay. Parents kept their students home today (Tuesday), and consulted with their primary care physician (PCP) and the Dept. of Health (DOH). Parents agreed to update our Health Office after consulting with health professionals. None of the students are presenting with symptoms and were told by their PCP that they can return to school. One of the parents is presenting symptoms and has self-quarantined. I will keep you posted as much as possible given health confidentiality (HIPPA).

A few important reminders and resources:

Upcoming planned events at WSD such as the Fun Fair, Free Throw Contest and Talent Show will continue as planned but could change. I will do my very best to provide timely information and decision-making about these events.
Take these everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs (Stop the Spread of Germs poster):
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Who is at Higher Risk? Early information out of China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:
- Older adults
- People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
  - Heart disease
  - Diabetes
  - Lung disease
- If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. (An outbreak is when a large number of people suddenly get sick.) Depending on how severe the outbreak is, public health officials may recommend community actions to reduce people’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19. These actions can slow the spread and reduce the impact of disease.
- If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.
You can keep up to date with the latest here:

Thanks, Sean McMannon
– WSD Superintendent