| Dear Parents and Guardians, Given the rising concerns about the spread of the coronavirus (now named COVID-19), we wanted to share the following updates. We continue to closely follow the recommendations from the San Francisco Department of Public Health, The San Francisco Unified School District and the Department of Catholic School for the Archdiocese of San Francisco in order to stay current on the COVID-19 situation. The CDC recently shared that the coronavirus may begin spreading in more communities in the United States, and Americans should begin preparations. Mayor London Breed of San Francisco has declared a local emergency to proactively prepare for possible coronavirus activity in the community. Here at St. Thomas More School, we continue to be vigilant in cleaning common areas such as bathrooms, water faucets, classrooms, and playground equipment to minimize the spread of germs. We provide our staff and students with regular reminders about staying home when sick and following sound hygiene and health practices as listed below. As a reminder to our families, if your child is sick, please keep them home from school. Students need to be fever free for 24 hours without the help of a fever-reducing medication before they return to school. We will send home any student or staff member that appears to be sick. To help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including the coronavirus and the flu, follow these important tips: -
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. -
Stay home when sick. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. -
Throw used tissues in the trash. -
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. -
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. The California Department of Public Health does not recommend the use of face masks for general prevention and says that handwashing provides much better protection from infectious diseases. The following websites may be helpful in providing more detailed information. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. Please continue to pray for those affected by this virus.
Blessings,
Marie Fitzpatrick
Principal | 
