Michigan PTA Statement Regarding COVID-19

(March 11, 2020):

The Michigan Parent Teacher Association (Michigan PTA) recognizes the current COVID-19 situation and is monitoring for potential impacts on our members, families, school communities and children. While the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic today and Governor Whitmer has declared a state of emergency in Michigan, it is not yet clear how these declarations will impact business, schools, meetings and travel. At this time, we would like to express our confidence in the Governor’s office, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to get information out to the public and to school districts.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is asking communities to reduce the spread of coronavirus by canceling or postponing large gatherings, reducing in-person gatherings, considering telework or tele-learning options and limiting nonessential work.

This is a rapidly developing situation and each school district is handling the situation differently. We recommend that each PTA/PTSA follow guidelines and communication sent out by your school administration. Sharing this same information with your community on websites, social media and in person will help deliver a consistent message throughout your district.

Here are some resources that you may find helpful.

Clean your hands often:

● Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

● If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

● Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Coronavirus

https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus

Michigan Association for Local Public Health directory

https://www.malph.org/resources/directory

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, talking with children about Coronavirus

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html