The district learned Monday of four positive cases of COVID-19 in our school community.
- At Harmony Hill School one new case was identified. The individual was asymptomatic and last in school on Dec. 15. 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 Harmony Hill Principal Mark Perry 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 Middle School two new cases were identified. Because the individuals were last in school on Dec. 11, the Albany County Department of Health has advised that contact tracing procedures will not be necessary.
- At Abram Lansing one new case was identified. Because the individual was last in school on Dec. 11, the Albany County Department of Health has advised that 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.
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.
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.