The situation around the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve. ACPS is working closely with the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) to ensure we are implementing their recommendations. We will continue to share any new information with you as soon as it becomes available. The AHD has assured us that the risk to our schools remains very low at the present time and that we can continue to hold regular classes. We are contacting the AHD for assistance as new questions arise.
However, with several confirmed cases in the DC region, we are actively preparing for a time when we may need to take more action, including potentially closing one or more of our schools. As you may be aware, the DC Health Department has recommended self-quarantine for anyone who was at Christ Church Georgetown on February 24 or between February 28 through March 3 due to positive COVID-19 cases. We have ACPS members who are self-quarantined due to attending Christ Church during that specific time. We may also have staff members who have been to areas with community spread. The VDOE has directed us to consult with the AHD on these cases. Because this is an evolving situation, we are continuing to work with the AHD on cases.
ACPS is following the guidance issued from the city as follows:
At this time if you have returned in the past 14 days from 1) a country the CDC has identified as high-risk (currently China, Iran, Italy and South Korea), or 2) Seattle-King County or Snohomish County, Washington, or 3) any cruise ship, you are required to self-quarantine at home for 14 days even if you do not have any symptoms. If this situation pertains to you, notify your supervisor and your HR liaison immediately for further instructions, remain at home, and follow CDC guidelines for returning travelers. If you have a telework agreement, you must telework during the quarantine period.
If schools are closed, we will be considering options that include online learning, and using the technology and tools that students already currently use. More details on the options for each grade level will follow should we need to make the decision to close.
Should we be required to close, ACPS staff will receive pay/salary as usual, as they will be required to continue to support students. We will be sending more information regarding our educational plan soon. In the meantime, please make sure you work with us to ensure your students are ready with the access they need to set them up for success.
Please be assured that our daily collaboration with the AHD means that you will be informed immediately should we be advised to implement different actions to prevent the spread of the virus. We will continue to provide you frequent updates as new information becomes available. For more information see the ACPS website. If you have questions about ACPS and the coronavirus, contact us via the Contact Us section of the website.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools