Estill County Schools: Superintendent Statement concerning School Closure
March 13, 2020
Dear Estill County Families:
I am sending you this letter – in conjunction with the Kentucky Department of Education and the Kentucky Department for Public Health – to let you know some important information during the time your children will not be attending in-person classes.
Yesterday, Gov. Andy Beshear recommended all public and private schools close for at least the next several weeks to help control the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) across Kentucky. Gov. Beshear said while children seem to be relatively safe from the virus, they are able to spread it and we are taking the steps necessary to protect all Kentuckians.
We are following the governor’s recommendation and starting Monday, March 16th we are closing in-person classes until April 6th. Our students will continue their classwork through the state’s Non-Traditional Instruction Program. Your student’s teachers have told them what kind of work they will be doing over the next two weeks and how to get in touch with them if they need help. We are encouraging our families to make sure their child is completing their work to help make sure education doesn’t stop.
Another important point to remember during this unprecedented time is the Kentucky Department for Public Health is asking all Kentuckians to stay away from large crowds, something known as social distancing. Due to these recommendations, all student activities are suspended for students in K – 12. Also, the KHSAA has issued a directive to all schools suspending the spring sports season. This Dead Period starts today and continues through April 13.
We ask that you keep children from gathering with their friends at public places, such as the mall or the movies. This is most important for children with chronic diseases, such as asthma or diabetes, who are the most at-risk of catching COVID-19.
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to it in the first place. Remember these tips from the Department for Public Health:
Here are some sources for more information that may be helpful to you and your family:
Thank you for your patience during this time. I will be in the office each day, so feel free to call me if there are questions.
Sincerely,
Jeff Saylor
Superintendent, Estill County Schools