Hello Mt. Carmel families,

Here are the items of note on this lovely Sunday afternoon!

• Make-up testing for any student who was absent for last week’s IOWA tests will take place this week, Monday through Wednesday.
• Congratulations to the following junior high students whose performance on the qualifying exams of the National History Bee and National Science Bee allows them to progress to the Regional Finals: Jonathan Bilella, Lilliana Formosa, Jacob Hansell, Joshua Hansell, Kaitlynn Kirk, Abby Millenbach, Brooke Morovich, Skylah Samad-Fuhrtz, and Jessa Zulueta.  Best of luck in the next round!
• A few spots still remain for our Kids’ Art Night on Thursday, 3/12.  Contact the office for details.
• Our food drive continues through this Friday, 3/13.  Which class will bring in the most food and win a prize?

I realize there are many worries and concerns about the spread of coronavirus / COVID-19.  The most reliable source of information is the Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/  The diocesan schools’ office has provided me with almost identical information.  Please know that we are carefully monitoring the situation, as most people are.  As with any viral outbreaks, good personal hygiene is the first line of defense.  Emphasize to your children the importance of frequent hand washing, refraining from touching mouths, noses and eyes, and covering coughs and sneezes.  Most importantly, keep sick children at home to minimize the spread of any illness.

Mr. Sbarra was in school today wiping down all door knobs, railings, bathroom surfaces, etc. with disinfectants.  We will continue to do this daily.  Teachers have been wiping down desks with sanitizing wipes daily as well.  The diocese will be providing regular updates in regard to the need for school closures, distance learning, etc.  At this point in time, I do not think there is any reason to be overly concerned.

Enjoy the extra hour of sunlight!

Alice Malloy