Dear Sir John A Macdonald families,

I am writing to you today with an information update regarding our school. As you may be aware, there was some misinformation circulating today regarding a positive case of COVID-19 in our school community.

Region of Waterloo Public Health has clarified with us that no confirmed cases of COVID-19 are affecting students in public schools in Waterloo Region, including SJAM.

Public Health has shared the following with us to provide some clarity around COVID-19 in our community:

  • We are not currently seeing any community spread of COVID-19
  • To date, all cases locally have been related to travel. However, the situation continues to evolve rapidly, and this could change at any time
  • People who DO NOT have prolonged contact (within two meters) with someone who is a case of COVID-19 DO NOT need to self isolate at home
  • Public Health has a detailed assessment process. Should any contacts be identified, they will be contacted directly by Public Health and given instructions
  • We continue to be in an active respiratory season, and people should stay home when sick

We continue to encourage these recommendations to help reduce the spread of germs, including the flu and COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash your hands
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth unless you have just washed your hands
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm, not your hand
  • Avoid visiting people in long-term care centres if you are sick
  • Get your flu shot

Please keep up-to-date with COVID-19 information in our region by visiting the Region of Waterloo Public Health website.

Sometimes, situations like this can cause heightened emotions. We are sharing some resources with you to help have conversations with your children regarding COVID-19:

How to talk to kids and teens about the coronavirus

Talking to children about COVID-19: a parent resource 

Please continue to monitor our school website for updates regarding the province-wide school closure. We will share information as it becomes available.

Sincerely,

Vida Collis,
Principal

Categories: News