To:

School District Administrators and leadership,

Department of Health and Environmental Control,

State Officials and leadership,

The COVID-19 virus is rapidly spreading in the US. As of March 13, 2020, there are 1,666 confirmed cases in the United State, and 12 confirmed cases in our home state of South Carolina. Many health experts are concerning that the number of infected is much underestimated because of the incubation period of the virus. While much needed research remains to be carried out, we could all agree that this virus is among the most terrible threats to us in the recent years. Therefore, we are facing an immediate challenge: how to protect our most loved ones, particularly the most the vulnerable group - our kids in the school districts across the State.

Several factors determine the rate of transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Although many aspects are beyond our control, one method is proven to be effective in reducing the virus spreading speed and scale: stop public gathering. The less personal contact, the less chance the virus can spread. That is the reason why many nations in the world have been cancelling major events, and several effectively in total lockdown. To date, many nationwide sports, entertainment, and social events have been cancelled in the US to fight the virus. As a matter of fact, the University of South Carolina is extending the spring break for one more week and suspending all face-to-face lectures till April 3.

COVID-19 IS in fact contagious to children, although it appears to have a lower fatality rate. About 1.25 million, or 25% of SC’s five million residents are under the age of 19. Each and every one of them is the future of our nation. It would be a tragedy if we had an outbreak in our public school system. It would also affect their families and the entire society.

Many concerned parents raised the proposal to suspend public school classes immediately. We trust our State and local government will take decisive action to face such threats. Our State and school districts normally cancel classes when having storm forecast and other natural disaster predictions. The COVID-19 is a clear, present danger we are facing, and no less deadly than the natural disasters. It is time for everyone to take actions to prevent the virus from spreading, to protect ourselves, our loved ones, our communities, and our future.

It is our strong request to suspend public schools immediately. Thanks for your attention to this matter.

The concerning parents:

(Please put your name here)