Updated January 29, 2021
The NYS Department of Health recently announced that high-risk winter sports (basketball, competitive cheerleading, and volleyball) may begin as soon as February 1, 2021 if approved by the local county departments of health. On January 29, the Columbia County Department of Health informed us that the county positivity rate must be below 4% in order for schools to participate in high-risk sports (the county positivity rate was below 3% in the fall). As of January 29, the county positivity rate is 6.8%, which means high-risk sports are not approved to begin at this time. This letter from the CCDOH also outlines the planning requirements for schools to resume sports (particularly indoor sports). Read more about the public health guidance for school sports in the Capital Region.
We urge families and community members to continue following all health and safety protocols to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the positivity rate in the community. This includes wearing masks or face coverings, washing your hands, practicing social distancing, avoiding gatherings, and staying home if you/your child are unwell or awaiting test results.