Dear Knox County Schools families,

Given recent information released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), I wanted to make you aware that Knox County Schools is having ongoing discussions on how best to prepare in the event of a possible case of COVID-19 (a novel coronavirus) in our schools and community.

As with any public health concern that may impact our students or staff, we work closely with the Knox County Health Department for guidance. And while there are policies in place that guide the district, we continue to work to ensure that we are planning appropriate precautionary steps.

The CDC has stated that the immediate risk of this new virus is currently low; however, we are asking for your help by taking standard health precautions to help avoid illness, such as:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.  If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Use a tissue when you sneeze or cough and then throw it in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when sick. If with fever, stay home and be fever free without the use of fever-reducing medication, for at least 24 hours before returning to school.

The well-being and health of our students and staff are always a top priority. We appreciate your continued support of Knox County Schools and your cooperation in maintaining a healthy school environment.

For more information, please visit: Knox County Health Department at https://www.knoxcounty.org/health and CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.

Sincerely,

Bob Thomas
Superintendent