November 15, 2020
Dear Parents/Guardians:
Late this evening, we learned a Jr./Sr. High School student tested positive for COVID-19. Due to privacy laws, we are not able to share the identity of the student or share details of their case. However, we can confirm that this student was last in school on Monday, November 9, and did not start displaying symptoms until Tuesday, November 10.
Although our students are in small classes, wear masks and practice all social distancing protocols, in order to complete contact tracing, the Jr./Sr. High School will be closed to in-person instruction on Monday, November 16, and will instead be fully remote. The Primary and Upper Elementary Schools will remain open to in-person instruction.
We are working in coordination with the Oneida County Department of Health to conduct an investigation and support their contact tracing efforts. If the Department of Health has determined that a student(s) or staff member(s) were in close proximity to the student who tested positive, they will be notified by health officials, who will provide further guidance. For this reason, it is important that parents and guardians are prepared to answer their phone, even if the number is not recognized. If your child or anyone else in your household exhibits symptoms of COVID-19, they should be assessed by their healthcare provider.
The safety and well-being of our students, staff and community are our number one priority and, again, we are communicating this information in an effort to be as transparent as possible. We recognize this message may cause concern. Our public health agencies have been outstanding partners throughout this entire situation. We join them in emphasizing the necessity of sharing information and acting with precaution throughout these extraordinary circumstances.
Thank you for your cooperation, understanding and support as we all work together to navigate this challenging time. Please remember to follow all protocols concerning COVID-19, including the wearing of a mask, frequent hand washing and social distancing.
Sincerely,
Rocco Migliori Superintendent of Schools