The district learned Dec. 18 of six positive cases of COVID-19 in our schools. It has been determined that five of the six cases were from the same primary source and did not originate at school. The sixth case was unrelated and also not believed to have originated at school.
- At Abram Lansing Elementary School, three cases were identified. Two of the factors that determine the need to contact trace and quarantine are the dates when the individuals were last in school and whether they were symptomatic or asymptomatic. One of the individuals was last in school on Dec. 3. The other two individuals were last in school on Dec. 11, but were asymptomatic. Taking these considerations into account, the Albany County Department of Health has advised that contact tracing procedures will not be necessary.
- At Cohoes Middle School, two new cases were identified. Both individuals were last in school on Dec. 11, but only one was symptomatic. Because of this, district leaders are working closely with the health department 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 Vice Principal Deanna Kelly and will also be contacted by the Department of Health to discuss the need to quarantine and other related information. Students in quarantine will receive remote instruction.
- At Cohoes High School, one new case was identified. The individual was last in school on Dec. 11 and symptomatic. Because of this, district leaders are working closely with the health department to supply contact tracing information. Any students or staff members who were considered a close or proximate contact have been contacted by Cohoes High School Principal Laura Tarlo or Assistant Principal Tom Kostrzebski and will also be contacted by the Department of Health to discuss the need to quarantine and other related information.
With our health and safety practices in mind, Abram Lansing and Cohoes Middle School will remain open for in-person instruction. Cohoes High School is currently fully remote through Dec. 23. The continued efforts by our families to keep our school community healthy and safe is greatly appreciated. Statewide data indicates that schools are seeing a much lower rate of positive cases than their surrounding communities and have not been the source of community spread.
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
As part of our reopening health and safety plan, our school continues 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.
We will continue to work closely with the Department of Health and communicate any necessary updates via ParentSquare and our district website.