The Polk School District has this week off for Winter Break, and one message remains crystal clear for families, staff and those who come into contact with students during this time away from the classroom: stay safe.

Officials posted on the District’s website ahead of the break another reminder that it is vitally important that all precautions be taken to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 around the community while students are off for the week, ahead of their return to class on Tuesday, February 23.

The notice asks that families be mindful of social distancing this week and limit exposure of youth to those without proper personal protective gear (masks, for instance) during the break.

“We have experienced a steady decline in positive cases over the past few weeks, and we are hopeful with everyone following CDC and DPH guidelines during our break, we can continue to decrease cases,” the statement read.

That includes washing hands frequently or using hand sanitizer when a bathroom isn’t available, disinfecting surfaces in common use, socially distancing while out and about – especially if traveling – and wearing a mask while out in public.

Cases as of Monday afternoon stood at 3,611 positives overall, a daily increase of eight new cases.