Thanks to everyone who has responded to this message. It looks like we are all pretty much on the same page with communication. This is what SMART Reading is sending out to our volunteer Readers.
Dear Readers:
We wanted to get in touch with our latest thinking and guidance related to coronavirus. Thank you for everything you’re doing to serve your students during what’s felt like a very strange time -- we appreciate your partnership and support as we all navigate our new normal and the constant stream of facts and information.
We’re continuing to monitor news and follow guidance from the Oregon Health Authority, government leaders and schools about levels of risk and how the virus is spreading in Oregon.
At this point, our recommendation is that programs should continue to be open and serve our students, as long as volunteer absences and any space restrictions allow.We’re committed to re-evaluating and reassessing this decision as the situation evolves and we learn more. In cases where SMART is postponed at a site due to high levels of absences or another reason, you will hear from SMART staff or your Site Coordinator, and we will continue to reassess that postponement as well.
Our volunteers should continue to make their own decisions about whether to attend SMART given their own personal levels of risk and comfort. The CDC advises that older adults who also have underlying health issues such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes, are at greater risk of illness; we urge these individuals to stay home and stay safe. We want everyone to stay safe and healthy!
If you plan to miss SMART due to health concerns, please be sure to notify your Site Coordinator so they can adjust accordingly.
Here's a resource sheet we’ve developed for you with some tips for staying healthy.
Thanks for all you do for Oregon students. Please let us know if we can answer any questions or concerns, and in the meantime, please take good care!
PS -- Here are a couple of helpful resources:
Oregon Health Authority COVID-19 Page
Video from Gov. Kate Brown, Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen and Oregon State Health Officer and Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger answering questions from Oregonians March 4
Recipe for DIY hand santizer