November 30, 2020 STAFF MEMBER POSITIVE FOR COVID-19
Dear Families and Staff,
The district has learned that two staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. The staff members are currently in self-quarantine. Due to federal health privacy laws, information regarding the staff members’ identities cannot be released. One of the individuals has not been in attendance since November 13 and the other since November 19. Other staff members affected by this news have been notified.
Upon learning the news, we contacted the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSCHA) and have been working with them on next steps. We will support the health department in its handling of the process and the appropriate notifications. All families directly impacted by this news will be contacted.
What This Means for You and Your Child
- You may receive a call from the health department or from the HCISD. If you or your child were in close contact with this person, you will be contacted by the local health department or by us. Being in close contact means that you or your child were within six feet of the sick individual for at least 15 minutes. You and your child may be required to be tested and may also be required to self-quarantine at home for up to 14 days. You will be notified if this action is necessary.
- Stay home and contact your health provide if your child is sick. We encourage you to continue social distancing, washing your hands, and monitoring symptoms. If at any time, you or your child begin to develop symptoms of COVID-19 (such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell), please stay home and call your healthcare provider for next steps.
It is recommended that you call ahead to your healthcare provider before going to the physician’s office, clinic, urgent care, or emergency room so they can be prepared for your arrival.
More information can be found at the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency. Again, please take social distancing seriously: avoid crowds, stay at home, and maintain at least a six-foot distance from other people. We will continue to provide updates as we’re able. If changes in your classroom are necessary, you will be notified.
Thank you for your continued support. By working together, we will get through these challenging times. As you know, the well-being of our students, staff, and families is our number one priority. Please join me in sending healing thoughts to our staff members.
Sincerely,
Troy Reehl