Our school community has experienced many challenges due to the ongoing pandemic. Currently, the numbers of positive COVID cases, people in quarantine, and hospitalizations are rising. Elkhart County just moved from yellow to orange within the Governor’s color-coded system (https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/2393.htm), and the spike in COVID cases means that everyone needs to take more responsibility for our community.

To bring the numbers down, GCS needs everyone to wear masks, wash their hands frequently, and physically distance from others. We also need students and families to establish their “bubble” of only ten or so friends and family members with whom they can socialize without spreading the virus. Everyone must take responsibility for following these mitigation efforts. It is the only way we can avoid spreading the virus and keep our students in school.

Fall Break is here, and we know some families may visit people who are not in their “bubble”. We ask you to be very careful if you travel. If you find out you have been in contact with someone who tests positive, we suggest that you quarantine upon your return to Goshen. Anyone traveling out of the country should plan to quarantine for 14 days upon return. Additionally, as we head into cold and flu season, the pandemic will become more complicated. Because of that, we encourage everyone to get a flu shot. If we all continue to be vigilant with mitigation efforts, we can make it through this winter together!

We appreciate your support and cooperation as we do all we can to maintain a safe learning environment for our students and staff.

If you feel lonely or stressed out during this time, reach out to friends via phone calls or video chats. Eat dinner “with” friends on a Zoom conference. Now is the time to be creative! Your children will love finding new ways to have fun together. Did you know that you can take virtual tours of zoos, museums, and theme parks?!! You can, just click here: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/travel/a31784720/best-virtual-tours/

(Spanish version will post as soon as it is available.)