Nov. 21, 2020
Dear DCS Community Member:
Today, the district was informed of a positive test for COVID-19 for a student of the Duanesburg Jr./Sr. High School; however, based on when the individual was last in school, public health has indicated that there is no need for contact tracing from the school setting or for any other member of the school community to quarantine. The student was last in the building on Nov. 12. The public health department has advised us that no one on campus is at risk in connection with this positive case.
As a reminder, Jr/Sr. High School students will participate in Remote Learning on Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, and Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020. Parents who wish to arrange meals may call 518-895-3000 ext. 228. BOCES Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are not affected and transportation will be provided. Duanesburg Elementary School will remain open for in-person classes Nov. 23-24. School is closed for Thanksgiving recess Nov. 25-27. In-person instruction will resume on Nov. 30.
The district has implemented deep cleaning and disinfection of any potentially impacted areas, above and beyond our established protocols, in accordance with CDC and DOH guidelines. We will continue to work closely with them and follow guidance from all public health agencies on maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment.
This notification is part of our commitment to keep you informed. However, please know that the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other privacy laws restrict district officials from disclosing or confirming any personally identifiable information. Therefore, we cannot identify by name anyone who has tested positive. The student who tested positive is in quarantine for the recommended time and will not return to school until cleared by the Department of Health. We will continue to work closely with our local Departments of Health and we will follow their guidance on how to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment.
We cannot emphasize enough that we must all remain vigilant and follow the guidelines outside of school, this includes limiting group gatherings, practicing good hygiene, wearing masks and following social distance guidelines.
Please continue to maintain personal awareness of COVID symptoms. Visit our website or contact your child’s school principal directly if you would like more information about our health and safety procedures.
I appreciate your patience and understanding of the situation. If you have particular questions or concerns, please contact my office.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Niedermeier
Superintendent of Schools