March 11, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Earlier this week, three cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) were confirmed in Cuyahoga County. While there are no known cases in the Rocky River City School District (RRCSD) at this time and we have been given no indication that any RRCSD student, staff, or family are connected in any way to the three cases, we will continue to take proactive measures to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our students and staff.

The RRCSD will always turn to the guidelines and recommendations of the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our county health department when making school-related decisions surrounding COVID-19, or any matter of public health, including school closure.

With the rise of reported cases of COVID-19 throughout the country and overseas, the RRCSD has made the difficult decision to cancel all international, out-of-state, and in-state field trips immediately until further notice. This was not an easy decision, but we do not want to risk the safety of our students and staff where exposure to COVID-19 may be greater.

• The decision regarding the June 2-4, 2020, 8th grade field trip to Washington, DC will be made by April 17, 2020.
• RRCSD staff will work with parents/guardians of affected students on refunds, credits or vouchers for future trips.

If you are planning personal travel in the coming weeks, please review the CDC website with COVID-19 information for travel.

Out of an abundance of caution and to help alleviate parent/guardian concerns, we are also postponing or canceling upcoming events throughout the district to help limit meetings of large groups. These events include:

Postponed

• RRHS Spring Musical “9 to 5” (March 12-14)
        The musical has been postponed until April 23, 24, 25.
        Tickets that have already been purchased will be honored for these performances.
• Band and Choir Concerts/Performances (All grades), including this weekend’s OMEA activities
• District Art Show
• Winter Athletics and Activities Awards Banquets (RRMS/RRHS)
• Book Fairs
• Special Person’s Day (Beach & Goldwood)
• Goldwood Family Math & Science Night
• Kensington PTA Family Game Night
• Building Transition Nights
• RRMS Maroon & White Night
• Lunch & Learn meetings, Coffee Chats, Book Talks, etc.

Cancelled

• Basketball Challenge Cup
       This event will not be rescheduled.
       Those who purchased tickets will have their money refunded via Paypal.
       Alternatively, if you would like your ticket purchase to be donated toward 7th Grade Challenge Days, please email Dale Cummins ([email protected])
• RRHS Prom Fashion Show
• RRMS Spring Sports Meeting
       Information will be posted electronically and sent to parents/guardians.

Per recommendations from Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) on March 10, 2020, all outdoor contests will continue until further guidance is provided. 

Decisions regarding events such as end-of-year awards assemblies, grade promotion events, National Honor Society, 8th Grade Dance, RRHS Prom, and Commencement will be made at a later time.

As a reminder, to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and flu, please follow these important tips:

• Stay home when you are sick. Please be fever-free for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Individuals with chronic health issues and/or individuals experiencing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional.

In addition, the Ohio Department of Health has established a Call Center, staffed by licensed nurses and infectious disease experts to answer questions regarding COVID-19 every day from 9:00am until 8:00pm. Call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

As you know, this is a dynamic situation and we thank you for your support and understanding with this matter.

Sincerely,