Update on (2) COVID-related topics
In our continued effort to be both communicative and informative, we wanted to update all families on two key topics relating to COVID-19: (1) the need to quarantine for probable cases of COVID-19, and (2) information regarding if/when a temporary school closure may be needed.
Quarantine for Probable Cases: As per the PA Department of Health, we must quarantine all identified close contacts for confirmed positives and probable cases of COVID-19. This is not an option. Our Health & Safety Plan references the need to notify parents when the district receives confirmation of a positive or probable COVID-19 case.
Information Regarding Temporary School Closure: We have also received several inquiries relating to “if and/or when” our schools may temporarily close due to a threshold of COVID-19 cases. As you know, each case of COVID-19 is different and needs to be addressed individually based on the circumstance surrounding that specific case such as school enrollment, size of building, etc. All cases have different scenarios and degrees of exposure. Thus, the decision to close any school and/or switch to remote learning is contingent upon the degree of spread among students and/or staff within a building, the time needed for contact tracing, and the amount of time and resources needed to properly clean and disinfect. The district continues to follow guidance from the PA Department of Education and the PA Department of Health, with both providing proactive consultative assistance to all districts. Please know we have a plan in place in the event that there should be a need to temporarily close and switch our instruction to remote learning.
As shared at the beginning of this school year, there may be times when students or staff members are absent due to reasons unrelated to COVID-19. As we head into flu season, we expect to see absentee rates increase. We encourage our students and families to please not make any assumptions or judgements about anyone who is absent from school or asked to quarantine.
Our staff works diligently each day to keep students and staff healthy, and our school buildings safe and open for students. If you have additional questions or concerns about these two topics, please feel free to follow up with your student’s principal. We will continue to keep our families updated as needed. Thank you for your continued support of our district.