Clarke families,
We have learned that 3 additional staff members at Clarke Elementary School have tested positive for COVID-19 (a contagious respiratory infection caused by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus). You can become infected by coming into close contact (within 6 feet for 15 consecutive minutes or longer) with a person who has COVID-19. COVID-19 is primarily spread from person to person from respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Our administrators, school nurse, and staff are working with the Clarke County Public Health to identify close contacts and mitigation strategies. If your child was in close contact with the individuals, you have been contacted by our school nurse, principal, and/or Clarke County Public Health.
Please understand, as we must protect the privacy of all Clarke CSD students and staff, we cannot share further details about the staff members. We will remain in contact with those staff members to provide our support and ensure they are not contagious before returning to school.
As long as COVID-19 remains present in our community, it is expected that cases will affect students and staff at school. Please continue monitoring your child’s health and pay close attention to any COVID-19 symptoms which can include: fever (100.4 or above) or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting or diarrhea.
Our greatest priority is the safety of our students, staff and community. Please continue to take necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you.
Sincerely,
Steve L. Seid, Superintendent
Jody Kerchal, Elementary Principal
Becca Kedley, Elementary Assistant Principal