Central Valley CSD learned today that a Jarvis Middle School student and a CVA student have tested positive for COVID-19. Both students are virtual, but have had direct contact with others through outside activities. The Jarvis student played an AYSO soccer game on Sunday, Oct. 25 and the CVA student attended a social event over the weekend. The Herkimer County Public Health Department has contacted the coaches and families of students to determine the need for quarantine and testing. Due to the circumstances surrounding the cases, the health department has advised that school will be able to remain open.
Under current guidance, anyone who tests positive and everyone in that person’s household must quarantine. Anyone who had direct contact (within 6 feet of an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more) must also quarantine.
What role does the school play?
Central Valley does not decide who is tested or quarantined. We simply notify the Herkimer County Public Health Department when we learn of a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. We also provide the health department with information to assist with contact tracing and follow health department instructions to protect students and staff. We share that information as it becomes available. Please understand that we adhere to all laws protecting personal information.
Does a student continue attending school while quarantined?
Yes, we were prepared. We designed our current learning model so that we could pivot in a case such as this. Many of our teachers already teach a mix of in-person and virtual learners. Our students have practiced the skills they need to learn at home. Our teachers and quarantined students should have little problem continuing teaching and learning. Students will join a classroom and receive instruction over the internet. If your family does not have internet access, please reach out to your school principal. Most Central Valley students have a district-issued Chromebook. If they do not, students in quarantine will receive one.
Is my student safe?
Central Valley is following all guidance to keep our school family safe. We wear masks, social distance, and sanitize regularly. We keep students in smaller groups and do our best to avoid mixing those groups. We maintain careful records to help contact tracing in case of possible COVID-19 exposure. As an additional precaution, our staff is spending extra time to deep clean and sanitize any areas used by students who had primary contact with the COVID-positive student. Although no system is perfect, we are diligent in our efforts to protect students and staff.
Please feel free to contact your school principal or Superintendent Jeremy Rich with any questions or concerns.