Dear New City Community:
 
I am pleased to report that the New City parent who was tested for COVID-19 does not have the coronavirus - the test result was negative. Although we took a proactive approach to prevent additional exposure, I understand the burden school closures have on families. Thus, I am grateful for everyone's patience and understanding with our one-day closure. School will be in session on Wednesday, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back through the Red Doors. 
 
At school, we will continue to work hard to implement proper infection control practices to prevent the spread of communicable disease. Teachers will continue to enforce simple measures to prevent respiratory illnesses (e.g. wash hands with soap and water often, cover mouth when you cough and sneeze). In addition, if your child is sick, please do not send them to school. Daily, our cleaning crew will continue to clean surfaces in the school, and all classrooms have disinfectant wipes for teachers to use during the day. Hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol will be made available to use when soap and water are not readily available.
 
As you know, our dining hall was used for voting today. While the poll workers were liberally using and dispensing hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes throughout the day, our cleaning crew will devote additional attention to the space tonight, so that it is clean and ready for when school resumes on Wednesday.
 
Lastly, I have spent most of today texting, emailing and/or calling many members of our community. From the correspondence, I know many of you are understandably concerned about COVID-19 and the challenges it presents. As a parent myself, I share these concerns. At the same time, it is crucial that we act calmly, make decisions based on consultation with experts, evidence and data, and respond in an informed way. I'll share a link to the City of St. Louis Department of Health website; please take the time to educate yourself on the coronavirus and its transmission, symptoms, and prevention and treatment. 
 
Again, thank you for your patience and understanding. I look forward to seeing you and the children in the morning.

Best,
Alexis