The district learned Sunday evening of a positive COVID case at Cohoes High School. The individual was last in the building on Jan. 5.
District leaders are working closely with the Albany County Department of Health to supply contact tracing information. Due to the late hour, families of any students who were considered a close or proximate contact have been contacted through ParentSquare by Principal Laura Tarlo. Affected teachers were contacted directly. Mrs. Tarlo and Assistant Principal Tom Kostrzebski will follow up Monday morning with phone calls. Students in quarantine will receive remote instruction.
Although the quarantine impacts staffing at CHS, the current plan is to remain open for in person instruction. School leaders continue to monitor staffing levels and any changes to the daily schedule will be communicated as quickly as possible.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other privacy laws restrict the district from disclosing or confirming any personally identifiable information and we cannot identify anyone who has tested positive.
All health and safety measures remain fully in effect throughout the district. They include mask wearing, social distancing, enhanced cleaning and disinfecting, and the submission of a daily health screening form.
Please remember that the best plan for addressing the COVID-19 virus is to remain informed and follow these steps to help contain the spread of the virus:
- Keep at least a 6-foot distance between you and others when out in the community — even if you don’t feel sick or have any symptoms
- Wear a snug-fitting surgical or cloth face mask that covers your nose and mouth
- Stay home when you are sick
- Call your healthcare provider in advance of a visit
- Limit social gatherings
We will continue to work closely with the health department and communicate any necessary updates via ParentSquare and our district website.