Updated: 4/30/08

CA-MRSA Staph Infection Information

As has been reported in the news media, a number of cases of community-acquired methicillin-resistant staphylococcus infection (CA-MRSA), more commonly known as a “staph” infection, have been recently reported in schools across the country, including Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam Counties. While Pearl River Schools have not had any reported cases, we would like to share ways to help students reduce their risk of contracting the disease.

CA-MRSA is passed through direct person-to-person contact, and is highly resistant to antibiotics. CA-MRSA infections usually begin with a skin infection, and can become serious or fatal if left untreated. Anyone can get CA-MRSA, however outbreaks have been seen among athletes, prisoners, military recruits, daycare attendees, injection drug users and other groups of people who live in crowded settings and/or routinely share contaminated items. Poor hygiene practices, such as lack of hand washing, may spread the bacteria easily.

  Parents and students can help by encouraging and practicing proper hygiene, especially:

o        Wash hands and body thoroughly and regularly with soap and water.

o        Keep clothes clean, especially athletic uniforms.

o        Wash cuts and scrapes and keep them covered with bandages.

o        Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, water bottles, or razors.

CA-MRSA infections typically begin as skin infections. They first appear as reddened areas on the skin, or can resemble pimples that develop into skin abscesses or boils causing fever, pus, swelling, or pain. Early treatment is important. Parents are encouraged to contact their health care provider should they suspect their child(ren) may have an CA-MRSA infection.

PRSD nurses are well-versed in recognizing these conditions and will follow the CDC guidelines. Additionally, we have informed our custodians of the hygiene issues associated with the infection so that they may conduct their work accordingly.

We are reviewing new information as it becomes available and consulting regularly with our school physician. Check back with this site for updates.

You may wish to access additional information through the following resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website

CDC Staph Information Sheet

Official Statement from the Athletic Trainers’ Association 

Parent University 2007-08

Wednesday, May 14th: Sending Your Child Off to College

All Parent University programs are free of charge and open to all parents everywhere.

Faculty, staff and other supporters of education always welcome.

All programs begin at 7pm in the PRHS Pirate Cove.
Watch for flyers and program specific details prior to each session date.

Universal PreKindergarten Program Available

Pending NYS Budget approval, PRSD will receive funds through state aid 
for pre-kindergarten services for the 2008-09 school year. 
Children who reside in PRSD and who will be 4 years old on or before December 1, 2008 are eligible. 
The program will NOT take place in PRSD school buildings.
Pre-kindergarten services will be provided through licensed and approved programs 
located throughout Rockland County. The program covers the cost for 2.5 hours 
per day for a limited number of children from September 2008 through June 2009.
Should more families apply than there is funding available, 
a lottery will be used to select participants.
Applications, placements and funding are all being coordinated through
Child Care Resources of Rockland, Inc.
Contact them at 845-425-0009, ext. 612 for additional information.
Click here to download the Universal PreKindergarten Application

District Offers Free and Reduced Lunches to Eligible Students

The Pearl River School District offers free milk and free and reduced price lunch to students from eligible families. Households must meet federal income guidelines according to household size and must complete an application or submit a Direct Certification letter from the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Applications are available in the school district business office located in the lower level of Pearl River High School, 275 East Central Avenue, Pearl River, NY 10965. For additional information, contact Merri Sonin at 620-3937.

 

PRSD Exempt from Breakfast Program
Due to a lack of participation in previous years, 
PRSD is seeking an exemption from the Federal Breakfast Program.
 Any concerns may be raised by calling 620-3833.