PISD Health Update
Plano ISD has released an updated Covid-19 communication that is available in both English and Spanish at https://www.pisd.edu/healthupdate. For your convenience, the message is included below.
March 5, 2020
The health and safety of Plano ISD students and staff remain our number one priority. As we approach next week’s spring break, we want to keep our students, families and the community updated on current guidance and district plans regarding COVID-19.
International Travel
Plano ISD continues to monitor travel advisories and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as our state and county health authorities. The COVID-19 outbreak is a concern for anyone considering traveling at this time. Those with travel plans are strongly encouraged to closely monitor travel advisories and guidance from the CDC, available online at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html. Collin County Health Services will communicate with Plano ISD regarding any official quarantine/monitoring restrictions for travelers. We realize some of our families have plans to travel over spring break, and we respectfully request that if you or any member of your household is traveling internationally, including cruises, please inform us via this online form.
Cleaning Measures
Plano ISD has cleaning protocols in place for all district facilities, and we are taking some additional measures to deep clean throughout the district.
- On a nightly basis, custodians use a commercial grade, hydrogen peroxide-based multipurpose disinfecting cleaner.
- Surfaces are wiped down and auto-scrubber machines are used nightly to clean and sanitize major hallways and common areas on campuses.
- Campuses will be “deep cleaned” during spring break, which means a hospital grade disinfectant will be used.
- All school buses will be deep cleaned with a hospital grade disinfectant using an e-misting sprayer.
- The district is providing campuses with extra disinfectant wipes, which schools use throughout the day as an additional prevention effort.
Ongoing District Updates
Plano ISD will continue to provide the community with updates based on information that comes directly from health officials. Our district’s approach to planning and preparing is in line with the CDC’s recently issued interim guidance for schools, available online at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-for-schools.html, and we have ongoing measures to help lessen the spread of communicable illnesses. Here is what you can do to help.
- If a student or staff member is sick, do not come to school. Stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication.
- Cover your mouth with your upper arm or a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
In the event that there is a confirmed COVID-19 case in the community, Plano ISD will coordinate with state and local health officials, city governments and healthcare providers so that timely and accurate information can guide appropriate responses. The district’s goal is to protect all students and staff while minimizing disruption to normal operations for as long as possible. Plano ISD will continue to provide updates when there are changes in the current situation or additional steps are needed.
While schools are closed next week for spring break, Plano ISD administrative offices will continue to operate during normal business hours. We encourage you to check our website regularly for any new updates during the break at www.pisd.edu/healthupdate. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership as we respond as a community to this health situation.
