Metro Nashville Public Schools Closes March 12 and March 13

 (Last updated: March 13, 2020 at 8:30 p.m.). 

Out of an abundance of caution related to the Coronavirus, Metro Nashville Public Schools announced closed on Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13. As a result, LEAD Public Schools also closed for the remainder of the week. 

Metro Nashville Public Schools has been working closely with the Metro Public Health Department (MPHD), which follows guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Tennessee Health Department to monitor the situation. 

At LEAD, we know there is nothing more important than the safety and well-being of our students, families and staff members. That’s why we are taking every necessary precaution. Our staff is thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing all of our buildings, classrooms, and common areas daily. This also includes distributing disinfecting wipes and discouraging handshakes, hugs or sharing electronic devices.

We strongly encourage all of our students, families and staff members to follow these guidelines to prevent illnesses: 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• To lessen the chance of spreading viruses, avoid handshakes especially if you have a cough or sneeze. 
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. 
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue while coughing or sneezing or cough into your arm. Put used tissues in a wastebasket.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid contact with individuals who are ill.
• Practice “social distancing” as a preventative measure.
• Do your best to “flatten the curve”:

If you are sick:

• Stay home from school and away from others as much as possible when you are sick.
• If you have symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and/or difficulty in breathing, please consult a doctor for medical advice.
• Face masks are not recommended unless you are experiencing symptoms, in which case a mask may help to limit the spread of respiratory droplets which can spread infection.
• Remember to get your flu shot. Flu season runs from late October through early May. One of the best ways to keep yourself and those around you healthy is to get an annual flu shot. Although the flu shot won’t protect you from COVID-19, it may help your physician in diagnosing and treating you if you become ill.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Mr. Tucker’s March 13 letter to LEAD families

WPLN News Live Blog about Coronavirus in Tennessee

Interim Guidance for Administrators of US Childcare Programs and K-12 Schools (Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention).

Metro Nashville Public Health Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Response and Information (Source: Metro Nashville Health Department).

Germ Prevention from the American Academy of Pediatrics

“Families Fighting Flu” prevention materials

Everyday preventive actions that help fight germs, like flu