Dear DCS community:
Today the Duanesburg Central School District was informed that two students in the Elementary School have been presumed positive for COVID-19. The individuals were last in the building on Dec. 15. The district has taken immediate steps to notify Schenectady County Public Health Services. The district is working closely with SCPHS and following all guidance provided by them.
Based on its contact tracing protocols, the public health department has determined that a number of teachers and staff members need to quarantine. This results in a staffing shortage. Because of this, Wednesday, Dec. 23 will be a “Remote Learning Day” for all Duanesburg Elementary School students. Students should login to their homeroom’s Seesaw or Google Classroom page at 9 a.m. to begin their instructional day.
Duanesburg Jr/Sr High Schools will remain on remote learning. Both schools will reopen for in-person and hybrid learning after break on Jan. 4.
We are not permitted by privacy laws to identify the individual involved. We have provided as much information as possible. The individuals who tested positive are in quarantine for the recommended time and will not return to school until cleared by the Department of Health.
Off-Site Programs
Students who participate in off-site programming will still be transported to their programs on Dec. 23 as usual.
Food service
Parents who wish to arrange meals for their children tomorrow may contact Mary Jewell, Food Services Director, at mjewell@duanesburg.org or 518-895-3000, ext. 228.
Contact tracing
You will be notified by school officials or SCPHS if you or your child has been in close contact with either positive individual. If you are not contacted, then you know that you and/or your child have not been in contact with the individual who tested positive. Please continue to be vigilant in handwashing, mask wearing and all other health and safety practices that prevent the spread of COVID-19.
If you are not contacted by Public Health, then you know that you and/or your child have not been in contact with the individuals who tested positive. If your child has been asked to quarantine, and you have questions, please contact our school nurse, Amber Lounsbury, at 518-895-2580 ext. 1229.
We again remind you that we are following all of the necessary health and safety precautions outlined in our reopening plan. We will continue to work in close partnership with our public health partners.
We appreciate your support, cooperation and partnership.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Niedermeier
Superintendent of Schools