LEE COUNTY, Fla. — Parents have been coming to Fox 4 with questions about how the school system plans to ensure their children’s safety amid rising concerns of COVID-19.
This afternoon Lee County School’s superintendent, Gregory K. Adkins, detailed the plan of action to limit the outbreak.
“We are asking anyone who is sick to stay home and seek medical treatment, ” said Adkins.
He says the school system is working diligently to ensure the health of students, and monitoring teachers, staff and children who may be showing symptoms of the virus.
“It is not ideal for people to be in school in close quarters when there’s a big virus, ” said Elijah Lefkowitz.
The school board says they will consider school closings and online classes if cases continue to rise.
One Lee County parent fears he may have to scramble to find childcare.
“What do you do emergency daycare? You just can’t conjure up a babysitter, ” said Bruce Marshall.
Parents say they are now keeping a closer eye out for things that could make their children sick.
“ I see them touching their mouths, I’m like go wash your hands try not to touch your mouth, ” said Petra Korsowska.
Many people are worried about how COVID-19 could effect statewide testing.
Lee County teacher, Elijah Lefkowitz says students attendance plays a big role in the schools overall rating.
“Schools get graded on attendance at those exams, so if people are staying home that could be bad for test scores and school grades,” said Elijah Lefkowitz.
Parent, Bruce Marshall says he's not too worried about the virus affecting his children directly.
“There is a slight bit of overreaction, obviously its the new story of the day, the week, the month, ” said Marshall.
The Lee County School board has canceled all school led international trips over spring break, and warns families planning to travel to high-risk countries that students will have to self quarantine after arriving back to the states.
They say they will continue to monitor the spread of the virus, and revise protocol as necessary.
