Due to recent media coverage, we are receiving increased interest in our plans for a possible novel coronavirus outbreak, also known as COVID-19. We are closely monitoring this outbreak.
At this time, there are two reported cases in Oregon. According to the Oregon Health Authority, the threat to Oregonians remains low.
We will update staff and families as the situation evolves. We are working with public health officials to determine next steps should the illness spread to our area. If public health officials recommend school closures, we will announce those through our automated calling system, the Vernonia School District Facebook page, and website (www.vernoniak12.org)
The CDC recommends taking the following precautions to stay healthy:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. (If soap is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol until you can wash your hands.)
Encourage students to wash hands effectively.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay home when you’re sick to avoid infecting others.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a cleaning spray or wipe.
We are also working with our staff to keep our schools clean and students healthy. We have encouraged any staff with respiratory illnesses to stay home.
The novel coronavirus started spreading in Wuhan, China, and there have been some media reports about discrimination. We ask that you and your family be mindful that bullying of students based on race, color, national origin, or disability is unacceptable in our school district.
You can find more resources on the Oregon Health Authority website:
Ever wonder where the information sent home with your student ended up? Virtual Backpack is Vernonia School District's means of organizing school correspondence and making it categorically available to all parents at all school levels. Please click on the link above or to your left to check out Virtual Backpack. Virtual Backpack has all the information we've sent home this year, both current and ancient.
We hope that you find this page helpful. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact our district webmaster at webmaster@vernonia.k12.or.us.