The Cohoes City School District learned on Saturday afternoon of a confirmed COVID-19 case in the Cohoes Middle School community. District leaders are working closely with the Albany County Department of Health to supply contact tracing information. Any students or staff members who were considered a close or proximate contact have been contacted by Cohoes Middle School Principal Dan Martinelli or Assistant Principal Deanna Kelly and will also be contacted by representatives of the Albany County Department of Health to discuss the need to quarantine and other related information.
The Cohoes Middle School staff and students continue to follow all recommended safety protocols, which include social distancing and mask wearing. Hand sanitizer stations are available in all classrooms and desks are sanitized at the conclusion of each class to minimize risk.
With these practices in mind, Cohoes Middle School will remain open for in-person instruction. Any students who have been directed to self-quarantine will be able to participate remotely until their quarantine has ended.
Please note that 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.
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 visitors to your home.
Since reopening in September, our schools have continued to follow all prevention protocols in accordance with guidelines from the New York State Health Department and CDC — this includes a thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all school buildings, proper social distancing (6 feet), mask-wearing, as well as daily health screenings for all students and staff. Further information can be found in our Reopening Health and Safety Plan.
We will continue to work closely with the Albany County Department of Health and communicate any necessary updates via ParentSquare and our district website.