March 14 – DMPS Closure Update

Dear DMPS families,

We are committed to providing resources and information while the district remains closed from March 13 through a target reopen date of March 30. During this time we encourage our students, staff and families to remain near home and avoid large group gatherings.

Travel Notice Update:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated the Level 3 travel health notices to now include most of Europe along with China, Iran and South Korea. The CDC travel notice recommends 14-day self-quarantine upon return from any of these locations.

Before traveling you should visit the CDC web for the latest travel updates.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

Flattening the Curve

Right now, you are part of an effort that may save lives in Iowa. Experts call it “flatten the curve”. If we can socially distance ourselves from others, we can help slow the spread of COVID-19. In the Des Moines area, several large employers have asked their employees to work from home, one of Iowa’s largest churches is providing services online only this weekend and conferences, performances, sporting events and conventions are being canceled. Statewide, colleges and universities are extending their breaks and moving classes online and even the Girl Scouts are suspending camps and activities. If we work together, we can make a difference for our most vulnerable friends and neighbors. Learn more about how to #flattenthecurve here: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/03/13/815502262/flattening-a-pandemics-curve-why-staying-home-now-can-save-lives

Additional Resources

For additional information regarding COVID-19 and what the Des Moines Public Schools is doing to take proactive steps to support our students, staff and families please visit dmschools.org/coronavirus.