Special Message From the Superintendent

Dear Illini Bluffs Community,

As you are aware, the COVID-19 virus has been in the news on a daily basis.  It is a very fluid situation that is changing rapidly. As more cases in the U.S. begin to appear, the media attention will only grow and possibly cause alarm. In preparation, the administration has been in contact with the Peoria County Health Department, and we are receiving ongoing updates and guidance. We have also been receiving updates from and monitoring both the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The IDPH and CDC have created an outline for what people should be doing at the present moment. This advice includes:

·  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 with at least 60% alcohol. We have sanitizer stands located at all campuses.

·  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.

At this time, the CDC and IDPH do NOT recommend canceling classes when no confirmed cases are identified in our school. Additionally, the IDPH and CDC are NOT calling for any special sanitizing processes beyond routine cleaning at this time.  However, we have met and are implementing additional methods to clean and sanitize our school facilities, voluntarily. We have inventoried and ordered additional supplies to be prepared.  In the unlikely event, the IDPH or CDC would call for the closing of public schools, we would comply. We are currently revisiting our academic continuity plan.   The academic plan will determine how alternative learning will be achieved should our school need to close.  The primary symptoms the Health Departments and the CDC are advising people to be mindful of in making a determination whether or not to attend classes or work are fever, coughing or shortness of breath. We urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention and remain away from campus until symptom-free or cleared by a medical professional. Two useful websites for factual information include:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/coronavirus 

It is important to be proactive and knowledgeable as we move forward. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as appropriate.  We appreciate your cooperation with these recommendations to keep us all safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

 

Dr. Roger Alvey, Superintendent