This is the first of a few announcements that we will make to communicate fully our preemptive COVID operations plan moving forward. A committee was formed in July to examine new case trends and transmission data in and around Marion County. This committee was made up of medical professionals, school and district administration, and school nurses. Advisement was given to be preemptive and proactive in nature. Thusly, on Monday, August 8, 2022, the Irvington Community Schools will:
1) Make masking OPTIONAL for students. Staff will provide supports for students who wish to wear a mask, but may not have one. Masks will be made available in our schools in a central location.
2) Request that parents continue to monitor their child’s health and check for the following symptoms:
a) Fever of greater than 100.4
b) Sore throat
c) Cough
d) Runny nose/persistent sneezing
e) Complaints of body aches/muscle-joint soreness
If ANY of these symptoms present, please keep your child home and have them tested. Please follow guidance from your physician moving forward from the date of positive test results and communicate with us. We will ensure that academic coursework and supports are provided to students and their families.
3) ICS will commit to social distancing practices in its classrooms and common spaces such as hallways, gyms, cafeteria, and auditoriums when possible.
4) ICS will commit to cleaning practices in keeping with CDC/community health best practices. Chlorox wipes have been distributed to each school for staff to wipe down surfaces, fixtures, and areas that are frequently utilized at the beginning of the instructional day, in between classes, and upon conclusion of the day.
5) ICS will encourage its students and staff to engage in frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing. Hand sanitizers will be supplied to each school to accomplish this objective.