Dear DCS Community Member:
Today, the district was informed of an additional positive COVID-19 test for a staff member who works in the Duanesburg Jr./Sr. High School. The individual was last in the building on Nov. 30. Schenectady County Public Health Services contact tracing has determined the need to quarantine only one individual, who has already been notified. 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 individual who tested positive is in quarantine for the recommended time and will not return to school until cleared by the Department of Health.
Based on the DOH’s investigation, it is not being recommended that we close the school. Therefore, all Duanesburg schools will remain open for in-person instruction and our overarching goal is for this to continue. We again remind you that we are following all of the necessary health and safety precautions outlined in our reopening plan, including mask-wearing, social distancing and enhanced cleaning and disinfecting. We will continue to work in close partnership with our public health partners.
Please help limit the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and adhering to guidelines related to gatherings. We are all in this together, and we are grateful for your partnership in promoting health and safety in our schools and community.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Niedermeier
Superintendent of Schools