Dear OUSD Community:







As I'm sure you're aware, the 2019 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a new respiratory virus that is affecting people throughout the world. Although coronaviruses are a group of viruses that aren’t new, this is a new type of coronavirus that we are still learning about.





Please be aware that the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. We continue to receive guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Orange County Department of Education, and local agencies to protect your health.





Staff is involved with ongoing conference calls with representatives from the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) to remain up-to-date on the current COVID-19 situation and general recommendations for Orange County K-12 schools. While officials say the risk to the general public is currently low, OCHCA acknowledges the situation is rapidly evolving, and our district is closely monitoring developments. We understand that news reports about COVID-19 have elevated concerns within our school community, and we want to assure you that we are committed to protecting students and staff in learning environments that are safe and inclusive.







We have increased the availability of hand sanitizer in classrooms and remain committed to daily cleaning routines that help prevent the spread of illness in classrooms and in common areas, such as gyms. Additionally, we are working with OCDE and other local agencies to update our emergency plans, which include a section to address issues and needs that could arise during a pandemic.





We are committed to continue to work in concert with our partner agencies to determine the appropriate steps to keep our students and staff safe. More information is available on our website at https://www.orangeusd.org/parent-community-corner/covid-19.





For information and news as it develops, please visit the Orange County Health Care Agency website at ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/epidasmt/epi/dip/prevention/novel_coronavirus. They are also on Twitter and Facebook.





OCHCA staff is also available to answer questions Monday through Friday between 8AM and 5PM via their Health Referral Line: 1-800-564-8448.





Thank you in advance for your partnership.





Sincerely,

Gunn Marie Hansen, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools