Will classes or school activities be cancelled?
While school buildings have been closed through the end of this school year, teachers are still providing learning resources for students. We encourage students and famlies to stay connected and engaged.

What will the make up policy be for school days cancelled?
We will follow OPSI guidance which states: If a school district closes schools in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, they should make every effort to make up missed time, including using scheduled vacation days and planned school closure days. Districts will be expected to make up as much time as they can, using those previously scheduled closure days, through Friday, June 19. For any missed time beyond June 19, OSPI will grant school districts with emergency waivers and allow them to end the school year. Please note, it is OSPI’s expectation that districts will maintain their graduation timelines.

What should I do if my child is sick?
If your child has COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough or shortness of breath), contact your medical provider to ask if your child needs to be evaluated in person. Please keep them home for 72 hours after the fever is gone and symptoms resolve.

Will our district utilize online learning?
We are committed to providing opportunities for our students to stay engaged in learning during school closures. Schools and teachers are developing equitable, grade-level appropriate learning opportunities and establishing distribution channels to get resources to kids the week of March 22. While some of resources will be online, we will work with families on a case-by-case basis to address technology barriers to learning (eg. lack of internet or device). Communication about learning resource will come from your child's school through email and be made available right here on our website (see the left side-bar of this page). These resources are not meant to be a substitute for classroom instruction, but will help students practice their skills and learn independently during the closure.

Is the district providing free childcare for first responders and healthcare workers during school closures?
We will be providing free childcare for heathcare workers/first responder (police, fire, EMT, 911 dispatcher, nurse etc.) March 30 - April 24, 2020 from 9:00AM to 3:30PM, M-F, including spring break, at Ptarmigan Ridge Elementary School. Snacks and lunch will be provided daily. Please view this Registration Information for more details, and fill out/return this Registration Form to Colleen Flanagan at flanaganc@orting.wednet.edu. 

Where can I get more information?

The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department 
COVID-19 Guidelines from TPCHD
Talking to your children about Coronavirus (video)
OSPI Parent Guide

What community resources are available?
We are lucky to live in a community with the heart and resources to help. Here is a list of available resources.

What can I do to help stop the spread and mitigate risk to myself, family and community?

• Wash your hands! Do so often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your face. Especially with unwashed hands. Your eyes, nose, and mouth are open doors for germs.
• Avoid people who are sick. Steer clear of illnesses if at all possible. 
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. Hold a tissue over your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Then throw that tissue away and, again, WASH YOUR HANDS!
• Clean things. Disinfect objects and surfaces often. 
• Stay home if you’re sick. This isn't the time to tough it out and leave your home if you're not feeling well. 
• Call first. If you or a family member are sick and plan to seek care, call first. Healthcare partners need to prepare for people who are showing symptoms—or direct you to the appropriate resource.
• Stay informed. Through trusted sources like the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department: www.tpchd.org/coronavirus.