Dear Wa He Lut Indian School Families and Staff,
As you know, we are facing an unprecedented public health crisis in our state and world.
We have kept our school operating normally as recommended by state and local public health authorities. We know that in addition to education, schools provide vital support to our community and that closure will have a major impact on our families.
As directed by Governor Jay Inslee in his address on March 12th, we have been actively engaged in contingency planning for a closure. Starting March 16th, Wa He Lut Indian School will close through Friday, April 24th, 2020. Public Health officials have advised us that a sustained closure can help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, students will remain home. Staff can expect further guidance from administration shortly.
We wanted to get the message about school closure out to families as soon as possible. We are currently in the process of developing district plans to support students and families with non-educational services as requested by the Governor and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. Further communication regarding these services will be forthcoming.
Public Health Guidance
Please continue to follow existing guidelines to protect your own health. The Washington State Department of Health recommends:
– Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds; use alcohol-based sanitizer if no water is available.
– Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
– Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with those who are sick.
– Stay home if sick. Note: temperature should remain normal (below 100.5 degrees) for 72 hours without any fever-reducing medication before leaving home.
– Cover cough or sneeze with tissue, throw tissues in trash, wash hands.
– Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
If you have other COVID-19 questions, please visit the Washington State Department of Health website at https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus
We recognize that this disruption in our normal school year has an impact on our students, our families, and our staff. We know that this exceptional moment has prompted lots of conversation and questions which we will address in the coming days.
We want to express our appreciation for the patience of our Wa He Lut Indian School community as we work through the daily challenges COVID-19 has presented us all.
Sincerely,
Harvey Whitford, Superintendant/Principal
Wa He Lut Indian School, Franks Landing Indian Community
