COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information and Resources

One of the best strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to utilize general infection prevention measures that include: 

• If you or your child is sick, stay home from work or school and contact your healthcare provider. Talk with teachers about classroom assignments and activities your child can do from home to keep up with their schoolwork.
• Wash 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. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and the Dare County Department of Health and Human Services. 

Dare County Schools is working closely with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure that we have access to the latest information and resources to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our schools and community. Here is an overview of our current prevention and containment protocols: 

• All schools have access to a nurse. 
• School custodial teams are increasing deep cleanings of classrooms and public spaces in all schools. 
• Our Facilities Department is ensuring that all schools have access to adequate hygiene and cleaning materials. 
• Students and staff are being encouraged to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom. All bathrooms will be stocked with soap and paper towels. The Center for Disease Control recommends washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, but using hot water is not a requirement. 
• We are also strongly encouraging hand washing throughout the school day at every available opportunity for students and staff. 
• Posters are being provided to all of the schools that promote smart hygiene practices. 
• All DCS-sponsored international travel has been suspeneded.  

The Superintendent has authority as outlined by Board of Education policies to administer the functions and operations of all Dare County Schools. During a health outbreak crisis, the Superintendent and Board of Education will work directly with local elected officials and the Dare County Department of Health and Human Services to make decisions on school closure. The Superintendent is following advice from healthcare professionals and will make the best decisions for the students, staff, and parents in the district. 

As we continue to evaluate the evolving nature of this pandemic, we are guided by these considerations: 

1. Communicating regularly with students, families, staff, and the larger school community.
2. Practicing routine cleaning and disinfecting procedures of commonly touched surfaces.
3. Maintaining an open line of communication with local, state, and federal agencies.
4. Intentionally and persistently combatting stigma through information sharing. COVID-19 is not at all connected to race, ethnicity, or nationality.
5. Actively engaging in contingency planning for the possibility of extended school closures.

The fastest way for parents, students and staff to receive up-to-date information is to visit this website. Additionally, parents are recommended to make sure their contact information is updated by calling their child's school and speaking with the data manager. 

Information will also be shared on the DCS Facebook page. This is a public page and can be viewed with or without having a Facebook account.

Our Digital Learning Team has developed protocols to provide all students in Dare County Schools with access to remote learning. To learn more about remote learning, please read our Remote Learning Guidebook for Students and Families.