Good Afternoon,
After watching Governor Hutchinson's news conference on the first presumptive case of COVID-19 reported in Arkansas (Pine Bluff). We now understand there are six presumptive cases. We will continue to monitor the Governor's Office and media outlets for updated information on COVID-19. If our district is affected, here are the steps we are taking:
Phase One (State-reported Case- Now): We are making sure students and employees are using good personal hygiene - washing hands and keeping surfaces disinfected. The custodial/maintenance crew will meet to review the cleaning schedules ensuring that all areas of the campus, including buses are being cleaned.
Phase Two (County-reported Case): If this occurs, Heber Springs School Administrators will contact local and state health department leaders; increase cleanings at school; and cancel public gatherings and meetings on our campus. If the governor continues today’s protocol, it will be recommended that schools in the counties will be closed. Heber Springs will follow that recommendation and cancel school as well as all district and community sports activities. The District has ten AMI (Alternate Methods of Instruction) that have been approved by the State. We will use those days to ensure students have access to academic content.
Phase Three (District-reported Case): If this occurs, Heber Springs School Administrators will notify parents; close school; and deep clean. Timetables on how long the district will stay closed will be dependent on the specific factors involved in the case. District Office operations will be conducted at "off-site" locations designated by the district's Disaster Recovery Plan.
Please know that the Heber Springs School District has a plan in place for our district. Preparation is important. Panic is unnecessary and we will do our best to communicate our plans. Please check the District’s website for updates.
Dr. Alan Stauffacher, Superintendent