Dear HCSD Families,
Yesterday we were notified that a staff member in the Central Office tested positive for COVID-19. This person did not have direct exposure with students or teachers. The individual is currently asymptomatic and tested only after being notified that they came in contact with a positive individual within their personal interactions outside of the work setting.
We worked closely with the Department of Health yesterday to conduct contact tracing of anyone that may have come in direct contact for 15 minutes (cumulative) or more over the days in question. As a result, four impacted individuals have been advised to quarantine in accordance with the District’s health and safety protocols.
Be assured that the offices as well as classrooms are being cleaned on a routine basis, especially on Wednesdays and Saturdays as well as when the Buildings & Grounds is notified of a positive test result within the work setting.
Please be reminded that we must all work together to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Families and community members can assist our efforts by promoting healthy behaviors and following these practices:
- Know the symptoms of COVID-19 and how to identify them in yourself and others. The DOH has indicated that loss of taste or smell may be a primary indicator of COVID-19 in asymptomatic individuals.
- Stay home from school or work if sick, even if symptoms are mild.
- Wear a face covering in areas where physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue (or sleeve), and then throw the tissue in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid large group gatherings, especially where masks are not worn.
We understand that you may want additional details, but privacy laws restrict us from disclosing or confirming any personally identifiable information. We also ask for your cooperation in avoiding the spread of rumors, possible misinformation or names when discussing known or suspected cases. We appreciate your understanding regarding this sensitive information.
Sincerely,
Dr. Maria Lagana Suttmeier, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools