Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Panhandle Schools Closed for the Remainder of the School Year



March 31, 2020
For more information, contact:
Kim Engel, Director, 308-760-2415, kengel@pphd.org

Panhandle schools will be operating in an alternative learning environment for the remainder of the school year.

After consultation with COVID-19 Unified Command, it has been determined that all schools in the Nebraska Panhandle will remain closed and operate in an alternative learning environment for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year. 

Traditional graduation ceremonies are not going to be possible this May.  Schools will be working to determine appropriate alternative methods to honor the Class of 2020 in each community, whether that be a ceremony at a later date or some other locally determined alternative graduation that complies with the guidance of health officials.

We continue to monitor the unfolding COVID-19 epidemic to anticipate its impact on the Panhandle.  We are working as a unified command with Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Managers, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department on this evolving situation.  We will continue to communicate important updates to the public and our partners.  The CDC is putting out updated guidance daily; for the most up to date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.  To learn more about COVID-19, go to https://www.cdc.gov/covid19.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle.  Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.  Visit our website www.pphd.org.

Friday, March 27, 2020

Week 1 Reflections on Remote Learning


(2 minute video)

Cardinal Counseling's 5 Bullet Friday for March 27th

WELCOME TO 5 BULLET FRIDAY!

The Chadron High School Cardinal Counseling Department is excited to share our 5 Bullet Friday Newsletter for the 2019-20 school year!  Each week we will be providing readers with five facts, tips or tricks to help make the school year a success academically, emotionally, and socially! 

If you do not wish to receive this email feel free to UNSUBSCRIBE using the button located at the bottom of this email.

1. Cardinal Cast:  Student, Parent & Teacher Expectations During School Closure

2. Digital School Counseling Open Office Hours! Email to Set Appointment!

I am available virtually to talk with any student who has questions or wants to chat with their school counselor! I hope to set up ZOOM and FACETIME meetings to go over next year schedules as well!

I have already told students they can also Facetime me at any point just by typing in my email:  loni.watson@chadronschools.net!  Today I held virtual office hours and got to FaceTime with 6 lovely students that I miss dearly!!  
 

3. Tips for Parents During COVID-19 Pandemic

4. Know How to Sew?  Bored?  Help Our Community Make Hospital Masks!

Contact Mrs. Watson to get free materials!  

5.  Students and Parents:
 2020-21 Schedules are Ready for Viewing and REVIEW!

I plan on emailing students VERY SOON with a copy of their 2020-21 schedule draft!  After the schedule is received I'd like to set up a ZOOM meeting where we can talk about:

1.  Classes, likes, dislikes, changes.
2.  Future plans after high school
3.  Summer enrichment opportunities
4.  Career counseling

Parents are invited to join these meetings as well!!  Once the schedule is reviewed ZOOM meetings can be requested and coordinated by emailing Mrs. Watson at loni.watson@chadronschools.net

Look forwarding to virtually "SEEING" everyone soon!  Here's a "PEAK" at seniors schedule for next year and a few offerings in the new split 1a/1b section :)
Readers, THANK YOU AGAIN for joining us! Whether you are from CHS or another school, If you find it worthwhile please continue to SHARE. THE. LOVE (and the link).

Monday, March 23, 2020

Free Internet Service for 60 Days

Great Plains Communications is offering 60 days of free internet service and increased bandwidth!
View the full notice and signup information at: https://www.gpcom.com/covid-19-notice/

Thank you for serving our community in these unprecedented times!


FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions (March 23rd)

We're all in this together!  This is one of those rare weeks when the teachers are probably learning more than the students!   :)

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I sign up for the text messages?
Text to: 81010    Type the message:  @chsnote     Press to send.

What if I need a textbook or personal items left in school?
The student should call the office (432-0707) or email the principal to schedule a time so we have staff available to meet them at the door for a personal escort to wipe surfaces.

My teacher hasn't emailed yet?
Be patient.  Our goal is for all available classes to be provided by Monday, March 30th.  We're hoping for a slow start and staggering several start dates.

How can a parent be aware of student progress or assignments?
Teachers have been asked to include parents in a few opening emails. Parents are encouraged to email the teachers as needed for questions and concerns.  Some classes are provided via Google Classroom, parents will be invited to have guardian access. Finally, Infinite Campus may or may not be useful, we're waiting a week or two to see how we can record mastery progress.

Do students have to complete classes?
Only for credit!  :)   Some seniors are required to complete the current classes for graduation requirements. All students will be offered credit based on completion.   If a student does not finish the current class, and it is required for graduation (ex. a junior in US History), then they will have to reschedule for next year or complete summer school or other credit recovery before graduation.

What credit do I get for the classes that are not offered via remote learning?
Students will receive the full quarter or semester credit for any class cancelled.
  A list of classes that will not be offered via remote learning include:
Foods & Nutrition, Culinary Skills II, Woods/Manufacturing, Woods II, Drafting, Welding, Construction, 9th Transition, Speech 9, World Geography, International Relations, Basic Nursing, Stagecraft, Concert Choir, Guitar, Band, Instrumental Lab, Intro to Business, Advanced Computers, PE9, Lifetime Activities, Advanced Fitness.

I didn't complete the survey but can I still pick up Grab-n-Go meals for my kids?
Yep. The survey was to give an idea of starting numbers.  Extra meals have been provided but we may run out of meals a time or two until we get a better idea of how many families will participate.

What time is the Grab-n-Go pick up?
11:00-12:30 on Monday, Tuesday and Friday.  2-days worth of meals are provided on Monday and Wednesday, with a 3-day supply on Friday to help with the weekend.

Do I have to pick up the meals at the school my student attends?
Nope.   You can pick up all of your children's meals at the handiest location for you ...the Middle School or the Intermediate parking area.



Sunday, March 22, 2020

Video Review of Remote Learning Starting Guidelines for CHS



Panhandle Schools Closed Through May 1st


After consultation with COVID-19 Unified Command, it has been determined that all schools in the Nebraska Panhandle will be closed through Friday, May 1st, with the possibility of schools being closed for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year.  This decision will be re-evaluated as circumstances change, with parents and families updated accordingly and extended as needed.  This is a precautionary measure; there are currently no confirmed cases in the Panhandle; however, local health and school officials are watching the COVID-19 situation in Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota closely.  School Superintendents met with Unified Command and agreed this action would help prevent exposure to our area to flatten the curve and decrease the spread of disease.

Proposed Guideline for CHS Remote Learning

This proposal will need School Board approval (due to mastery learning with grading policy changes).

This is such an unusual circumstance and it is frustrating to not have all the answers due to constant change of what used to be the norm.  Thank you for your patience while we sort through it all. Here is a set of starting guidelines as we begin this new journey. ~Mr. Mack

*Every senior has the opportunity to graduate on time, just as before the the school closure*

*A student (with parent approval) that chooses to not participate in remote learning will not receive additional credits that are not already earned prior to the school closure.

Example: A student (like a senior) may choose to not participate in an elective class not needed for their graduation requirements and will not receive any additional credits for the class.

I would strongly encourage students to participate for the first couple of weeks to see if they can meet the mastery expectations, show transcript progress for college, and to wait for state official announcements on whether students can return to school soon. 


Mastery Learning
Teachers will focus on instructional strategies to provide opportunities for student learning to meet an identified level of performance (mastery) of state standards or other learning outcomes.  Student feedback for the teacher could be assigned in the form of homework, quizzes/tests or projects.  Teachers will identify ‘Mastery’ standards and a “Met” or “Not Met” grade may be assessed.


Core Classes
English, Math, Science, and most Social Studies courses have been prioritized to provide via remote learning.  We want to continue the student learning that aligns with state assessments and the ACT for students next year as well as to provide core grade level growth. Teachers will prioritize and address remaining state standards in these areas as well as provide review and enrichment. The curriculum might remain the same, but assignments and projects will likely vary greatly from previous semesters.  Our goal is for students to continue their academic progress to be prepared for success at grade level courses next fall.


Non-Core Classes 
Teachers have identified the current non-core classes that can be offered via remote learning. Teachers will identify the important course topics or remaining standards to cover for the remainder of the course. The curriculum might remain the same, but assignments and projects will likely vary greatly from previous semesters.
Classes No Longer Offered
Several classes that were originally scheduled for the 4th quarter will not be available via remote learning during the school closure.  Teachers made difficult decisions to identify classes that could not be provided remotely with assured quality of instruction.  If students are allowed to return to school, we might offer experiences of learning for students in these classes.

A list of classes that will not be offered via remote learning include:
Foods & Nutrition, Culinary Skills II, Woods/Manufacturing, Woods II, Drafting, Welding, Construction, 9th Transition, Speech 9, World Geography, International Relations, Basic Nursing, Stagecraft, Concert Choir, Guitar, Band, Instrumental Lab, Intro to Business, Advanced Computers, PE9, Lifetime Activities, Advanced Fitness.

A few of these classes were 4th quarter offerings only, so students had not started any coursework, therefore, students will not be assigned credit for those classes.

There are a couple of freshman quarter classes that are required, at this time I’m confident in waiving the 9th Transition requirement, but haven’t made a decision whether to reschedule Speech 9 for next year or to waive the requirement. We’ll make that decision after more conversations with staff this spring.

Project-based classes like Woods/Manufacturing, Woods II and Welding have unfinished student projects. Unless needed immediately, students can schedule individual appointments to pick up projects and materials in April.


Starting Date For Remote Learning:
Many, but not all of the class offerings will begin on Monday, March 23rd. The remaining classes to be offered will be staggered to begin throughout the week of March 23-27. Students are already receiving emails from teachers about their potential start dates.  The focus of the first week of Remote Learning will be to review and provide enrichment activities, practice the use of new technologies and schedules, and to identify areas to improve learning opportunities for all students.


Student Entry For Learning Materials:
Students can email or call the school office (432-0707) to schedule an appointment to stop and grab their needed materials, textbooks or personal items.  Students will be individually escorted (6' or more distances) to their locker and back so we can wipe down any touched surfaces. Parents and other non-staff personnel will not be allowed entry at this time. Please call or email for your informational needs.

Special Education Accommodations:
All accommodations will be provided for students to meet the needs of the IEP.  We’re currently working on the delivery of these accommodations.
  • SPED case managers have been in contact with individual families and will execute a Change of Placement form to accommodate learning for each student (this will be in the form of direct services - via Zoom and/or video/calls, coaching, and consultation)
  • Teachers are making accommodations and modifications for each student with support services provided by the resource teacher and these packets will be mailed to students rather than during the packet pick-up.
Learning Packets:
For students without access to the internet or by request, learning packets will be provided in lieu of the online assignments/expectations. At this time, packets can be picked up at the front door of the high school on Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00a to 3:00p.  Student packets should be picked up and returned no less than once a week for continuous learning throughout the school closure.

Transcripts, Grading and Credits During Remote Learning:
(Completion of high school is about credits obtained on a transcript, not on percentage grades.)

The semester courses that we cannot continue to offer will be assessed the full semester credit based on the third quarter grade.

Once students have met mastery in the remaining standards and topics for their semester courses, they will receive full credit on their transcript. Grade reports will show a 3rd quarter percentage grade, then a 4th quarter “Met” or “Not Met”.

Students can earn half or full credit for their courses depending on their ability to complete mastery of remaining coursework before May 22nd.

For example: For a semester class, a student that ‘passed’ the 3rd quarter based on the posted percentage, but ‘Not Met’ the 4th quarter, could be assigned 0.5 credits for the semester instead of 1.0 credits.


Other transcript examples for a semester course:
Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Semester Credit
Student A 94% (A) Met 1.0    awarded remaining half credit
Student B 73% (D) Not Met 0.5    no additional credit awarded
Student C 67% (F) Met 0.5    *teacher and principal discretion for full (1.0) credit

*We realize that sometimes students fail the first quarter but complete the second quarter with a high enough grade to pass the entire semester and receive credit. We want to continue to provide this opportunity for student success and accomplishment. These cases will be reviewed individually by the teacher and principal for a final decision in awarding full credit or half credit.


Completion Of Classes:
This is another area where ‘school’ will look very different.  Students will be provided learning opportunities to show mastery of the remaining standards for these classes. As we begin presenting new material for coverage of standards, students will have some opportunity to work at their individual pace to complete and show mastery, therefore, students could be completing classes earlier than May 22nd and at different dates than peers in the same class.

Please be patient as teachers are developing curriculum with all new instruction and assessment strategies utilizing technology that we’ve never used to deliver content.  Review and enrichment will begin during the week of March 23rd followed by sequential posting of new content in the following weeks. Classes will not have a complete list of projects for year-ending completion for several weeks (perhaps by mid April).


Student Check-Out Upon Completion:
If the school closure remains in effect, upon completion of all classes, each student will individually schedule a time to come to the school to return all school materials and equipment (chromebooks, charging cables, cases, calculators, textbooks, etc.) and pay all remaining fines (library, lunch, damaged equipment, etc.) in the normal check-out process.


Graduation Ceremony:
Obviously a graduation ceremony will be dependent on guidelines from health officials in May. If health officials and state guidance allow, it will remain as scheduled for May 9th at 1:00pm. We’ll explore other options as we continue to monitor the situation this spring.



Live Broadcast Schedule:
In order to ensure that teachers have scheduled opportunities to participate in Zoom or other live video broadcasts with their students, we’ve developed the following schedule for reservation of starting times for each class.  (Teachers can provide other forms of communication at any time)

8:00 Virtual Teacher Lounge
                             (educators available to provide resources and information for teachers)
9:00  Block 1
10:15  Block 2
12:15  Block 3
1:30  Block 4A
2:30  Block 4B

*Students can contact teachers if there are issues/concerns with meeting times.


Student Progress Reporting: 
Infinite Campus will probably be used differently the remainder of the year to indicate mastery learning. We encourage students and parents to email the teacher with questions or concerns. Teachers will be encouraged to provide regular reports if Infinite Campus doesn’t allow for proper progress reporting as before.


Office Hours:
8:00a-4:00p
Currently, our office is not fully staffed to answer all phone calls so emailing is another option for contacting our staff. Again, your patience is appreciated!


*These guidelines are subject to change due to a variety of reasons including: 
Changes in Department of Education or other State or health official guidance
The practice of remote learning leads to more effective improvements
Staff availability due to health or family matters

Friday, March 20, 2020

Students Qualify for State Nat'l History Day Contest

Congratulations to the following students who qualified for the State NHD contest:

Senior Group Websites:
1st Susan LaFlesche Picotte—Lauren Collins, Grace Sorenson
2nd Smallpox Vaccine---Gracie Jones, Alexis Conboy, Jameson Margetts

Junior Individual Websites
1st Rosetta Stone, Breaking the Barrier—Eliu Paopao
3rd John L. Sullivan---Uzziah Schwartz

Senior Individual Website
1st Kuklinski Breaks the Iron Curtain---Thomas Kaus

Junior Individual Exhibit
3rd Florence Nightingale---Jaelyn Brown

Junior Paper
1st Alexander Hamilton---Lucy Rischling

Senior Paper
1st Jacqueline Cochran---Maralee Rischling

Junior Documentary
3rd American Woman Pilots of WWII---Talon Jelinek, Myles Nesheim, Thomas Smith

Senior Group Documentary
1st Cassidy Nesheim, Jackson Smith

Senior Individual Documentary
1st Tyler Kaus

Special Awards
Great Plains Award-- Lauren Collins, Grace Sorenson
Military Award--Talon Jelinek, Myles Nesheim, Thomas Smith



Cathy Kaus, Library Media Specialist
Email address:  cathy.kaus@chadronschools.net

Here Are The Four School Building Remind Accounts


It's really just that easy!  

Text to: 81010, then in the message type the building code with the "@" symbol in front.   For the HS, type:   @chsnote

You'll receive a quick notice that you're signed up!

7 Minute Video - Epidemiology Case of Keeping Schools Closed

This 7 minute video does a great job of letting us know why and how we need to all respond to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  It's worth your time!



If You Travel Out Of The Panhandle, Self-Quarantine for 14 Days


Thursday, March 19, 2020

Does Your Student Need To Pick Up Learning Materials?

The school will remain locked but students can pick up personal items, materials for learning from home, and medications from the high school from 9-12p or 1-3p with a personal escort by a staff member. This is a one time allowance for entry during the school closure for needed items.

Call the school office (432-0707) for notification or stop and use the front door call button.  Students will be individually escorted (6' or more distances) to their locker and back so we can wipe down any touched surfaces.


Parents and other non-staff personnel will not be allowed entry at this time. Please call or email for your informational needs.

Thank you for your support and patience in these unconventional times!

Discover Your Genius Challenge (High School & Middle School)

Below are links to an enrichment opportunity for kids. Everything is online. Any questions can be directed to Mrs. Kaus.

Discover Your Genius Challenge (High School & Middle School)
Form teams of up to 4 people for an online challenge. Invest  a couple of hours per teammate over a 7 day period, starting March 31. Winners will share prize money in two categories. Register now at: https://dygnow.org/

Youtube Video Invite for Student:  

Youtube Video for Parents and Teachers:

Cathy Kaus, Library Media Specialist
Email address:  cathy.kaus@chadronschools.net

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

School Survey for Grab-n-Go Breakfast and Lunch

https://forms.gle/CqTV3RBxinLjaywR6     (complete once per family)

We are trying to find out, how many families would like a grab-n-go breakfast and lunch. Please take this one minute survey by the end of the day Thursday, March 19th.

Pending approval, we would like to start serving on Monday March 23rd. Pick up times have yet to be determined. Thank you!

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Home Technology Survey

Below is a link to the the home survey to assess options to provide digital resources to students.  Please complete this survey before noon on Friday, March 20th.

Thank You!!


Sign Up for the HS Text Message Service

On the right hand side of this site, you can click on the icon to sign up for Remind or text...

To:   81010
Message:   @chsnote

This will add you to Mr. Mack's account for Chadron High School information.

Sunday, March 15, 2020

ESU13 Schools in Nebraska Panhandle Closed for Two Weeks

After consultation with COVID-19 Unified Command, it has been determined that Chadron Public Schools along with all other schools in the Nebraska Panhandle will be closed for the next two weeks. This decision will be re-evaluated on Friday, March 27, 2020, with parents and families updated accordingly and extended as needed.  This is a precautionary measure; there are currently no cases in the Panhandle. The State of Nebraska has elevated the risk assessment, and Nebraskans, in general, maybe at the same risk as travelers from other areas in the nation and other parts of the world. School Superintendents met with Unified Command tonight and agreed this action would help prevent exposure to our area to flatten the curve and decrease the spread of disease.

We ask that students and community members immediately begin engaging in social distancing.  There will be no practices or school activities during the 14 day period.  Unified Command has asked that anyone who has traveled to areas with community transmission of COVID-19 to self-monitor and self-quarantine.  At this time, there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Panhandle.  Additional information will be forthcoming.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared that worldwide, including many states in the U.S, community transmission is occurring.  Some countries and communities have widespread, sustained transmission.
This weekend it was confirmed the first case of community transmission in Nebraska.
Our neighboring states are beginning to identify community transmission (Iowa)
Multiple large-scale exposure events have been identified in Omaha, which raises concerns about additional community transmission regionally and possibly statewide.

In light of these developments, we are modifying our risk assessment and the allocation of valuable public health resources. These updates are in reaction to the rapidly evolving epidemiology of this virus: community transmission changes everything. Nebraskans in general may soon be at the same risk as travelers from other areas in the nation and other parts of the world.

Public health recommendations for travelers:
A.   All returning travelers have an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19
B.   All returning travelers should limit public interactions, practice strict social-distancing, and self-monitor for symptoms
C.   If a returning traveler develops fever or respiratory illness, they need to IMMEDIATELY self-isolate and report to a provider or call Panhandle Public Health District’s 24/7 line at 308-262-5764.
D.   Returning travelers need to track the publicly reported COVID-19 disease burden in the areas to which they have travelled through both the local/state public health departments and public media websites.  Areas with widespread sustained transmission, please see list below, are at increased risk and of special concern.  Such travelers should self-quarantine for 14 days and immediately report any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection to their health care provider. Individuals unable to observe the 14-day self-quarantine should consult with Scotts Bluff County: 308-630-1580, all other Panhandle counties: 308-262-5764.
E.    Health care workers with a travel history from an area with widespread sustained transmission or other high-risk exposure should consult with a trained medical professional (e.g. infection preventionist or physician) at their facility and establish an infection control protocol (e.g., home quarantine, self-monitoring, PPE while at work etc.) that mitigates the risk of patient and co-worker exposure.

Areas with widespread sustained transmission, are at increased risk and of special concern.  Such travelers should self-quarantine for 14 days and immediately report any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection to their health care provider. Individuals unable to observe the 14-day self-quarantine should consult with Scotts Bluff County: 308-630-1580, all other Panhandle counties: 308-262-5764.

United States: Check here for updates - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-in-the-us.html
California state counties
Contra Costa
Los Angeles
Cities of Los Angeles & Anaheim
Riverside
Sacramento
San Bernardino
San Francisco
San Mateo
Santa Clara
Sonoma
Solano
Yolo

Colorado state counties
Eagle
Gunnison
Pitkin
Summit
All ski resorts

Houston, Texas

Iowa
Carroll
Dallas
Harrison
Johnson
Pottawattamie


New York state
New York City Nassau
Suffolk

Reno, Nevada

Washington state counties
King
City of Seattle
Snohomish


Internationally: Check here for updates - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html
China
Italy
Iran
South Korea

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City

We thank you for your cooperation, these are unprecedented times and it will take each person doing their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Students and families, please do not gather at alternate locations. Help keep our communities safe and protect our most vulnerable populations!

Two Week School Closure


After consultation with Panhandle Public Health District and COVID-19 Unified Command, it has been determined that Chadron Public Schools along with the other ESU 13 schools in the Nebraska Panhandle will be closed for the next two weeks.  The State of Nebraska has elevated the risk assessment this evening and schools are engaging in preemptive dismissal to try to decrease the spread of disease.

We ask that students and community members immediately begin engaging in social distancing.  There will be no practices or school activities during the 14 day period.  Unified Command and Regional West have asked that anyone who has traveled to areas with community transmission of COVID-19 to self-monitor and self-quarantine.  At this time there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Panhandle.  Additional information will be forthcoming. 

Dr. Caroline B. Winchester

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

N E W S    R E L E A S E
From Panhandle Public Health District


March 11, 2020
For more information, contact:
Kim Engel, Health Director  308-760-2415


Recent testing for COVID -19 is negative

The test result for the parent of the Chadron student has tested negative for COVID-19.  No further testing for COVID-19 in this situation is needed. 

Panhandle Public Health District supports the decision to limit spectators at the Boy’s State Basketball tournament as a public health measure to prevent the spread.  Social distancing at this early stage in our area will make a big difference on the impact of COVID-19. 

Panhandle Public Health District continues to monitor the unfolding COVID-19 epidemic to anticipate its impact on the Panhandle.  We are working as a unified command with Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Managers, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department on this evolving situation.  We will continue to communicate important updates to the public and our partners.  The CDC is putting out updated guidance daily; for the most up to date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

We recommend that you call public health (308-262-5764) if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread.  Please call before seeking health care. Public health is working with health care providers, the state health department, and CDC to determine if there is a need to be tested for COVID-19.

Residents are also encouraged to review their family preparedness plans in the event that coronavirus disease 2019 continues to spread in the United States.

People can help protect themselves from COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by: 
Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.

- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick. Social distancing has been key in reducing spread. 
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The CDC does NOT currently recommend the general public use facemasks.

PPHD is working with state health officials to continue to take action to prevent the spread of disease and protect the health of Nebraskans, including:
- Sharing the latest guidance and information with hospitals, health care providers, first responders, and local and state labs.  We have been holding weekly updates with hospitals and clinics.
- Assessing our health care system’s readiness to identify, monitor, and treat patients with coronavirus disease 2019.
- Engaging in active and ongoing communication with state and federal partners as part of the overall national response to this emerging public health threat.
- Reviewing and enhancing response plans with emergency management and partners to be ready for the detection of COVID-19 in the panhandle.
- With the state and other local health department partners, we have a system in place to track and monitor cases in an effort to immediately detect secondary cases and minimize the potential for ongoing, undetected, person-to-person transmission.  There are no cases in the Panhandle. 

To learn more about COVID-19, go to https://www.cdc.gov/covid19.

PPHD will keep you posted in this quickly changing environment.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle.  Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.    Visit our website www.pphd.org.


Panhandle Public Health District 3/10/20 Press Release

N E W S    R E L E A S E
FinalLogo2012


March 10, 2020 For immediate release.
For more information, contact:
Kim Engel, Director , 308-760-2415, kengel@pphd.org


Remain calm, protect yourself and your community


The risk for contracting COVID-19 remains low in the Panhandle. There are no known cases at this time. 
We recommend that you call Panhandle Public Health District  (308-262-5764) if you develop a fever
and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact
with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. 
Chadron Community hospital asks that you call 308-432-5586 before seeking health care. It is important
that health care providers know you are coming so that proper precautions can be in place. 


People can help protect themselves from COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by: 
- Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick. Social distancing has been key in reducing spread. 
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The CDC does NOT currently recommend the general public use facemasks.
PPHD is working with state health officials to continue to take action to prevent the spread of disease
and protect the health of Nebraskans, including:
- Sharing the latest guidance and information with hospitals, health care providers, first responders, and
local and state labs.  We have been holding weekly updates with hospitals and clinics.
- Assessing our health care system’s readiness to identify, monitor, and treat patients with coronavirus
disease 2019. 
- Engaging in active and ongoing communication with state and federal partners as part of the overall
national response to this emerging public health threat.
- Reviewing and enhancing response plans with emergency management and partners to be ready for
the detection of COVID-19 in the panhandle.

With the state and other local health department partners, we have a system in place to track and monitor cases in an effort to immediately detect secondary cases and minimize the potential for ongoing, undetected, person-to-person transmission.  There are no cases in the Panhandle.
Panhandle Public Health District continues to monitor the unfolding COVID-19 epidemic to anticipate
its impact on the Panhandle.  We are working as a unified command with Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency
Managers, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department on this evolving situation.  We will continue to
communicate important updates to the public and our partners. The CDC is putting out updated guidance
daily; for the most up to date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

To learn more about COVID-19, go to https://www.cdc.gov/covid19.

PPHD will keep you posted in this quickly changing environment.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for
all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle.  Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer
Panhandle Community.    Visit our website www.pphd.org.