Good afternoon,
The district learned this weekend of three positive COVID cases in our school community, only one of which required contact tracing.
- At Harmony Hill School, one new case was identified.The individual was last in the building on Jan. 7. 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 Harmony Hill Principal Mark Perry and will also be contacted by the health department to discuss the need to quarantine and other related information. Students in quarantine will receive remote instruction.
- At Abram Lansing Elementary, one new case was identified. Because the individual was last in the building on Dec. 23, the ACDOH has advised that contact tracing procedures will not be necessary.
- At Cohoes Middle School, one new case was identified. The individual is a virtual learner and has not been in contact with any students or staff, so contact tracing procedures will not be necessary.
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 note that, although the COVID-19 infection rate continues to increase in our region, all available data indicates that the rate of virus transmission in schools is quite low compared with the larger community. Unless staffing shortages require all-remote learning or there is evidence of broader virus transmission in schools, we will plan to remain open for in-person learning. We will continue to work with our public health partners to monitor all available information, including how the increased infection rates relate to schools.
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.