This guide is intended to inform school district leaders about the federally identified risks associated with a new coronavirus that is now present in the U.S., known as "COVID-19," and to provide a checklist of issues school leaders should consider when planning for any such crisis in the community. School systems can be proactive and plan to respond in a flexible way to a public health threat. Schools and school districts can refine their business operation response plans. School administration, including health services leadership, must be involved in the planning process, which includes partnering with local public health authorities, updating infectious disease pandemic plans, and sharing essential communication strategies. School nurses are critical members of the planning team and should participate in the planning process. [The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) provided input and collaboration on this report. For "Fostering Safer Schools: A Legal Guide for School Board Members on School Safety," see ED626160.]