COVID-19 case at Van Buren Elementary School
November 7, 2020Dear Parents & Guardians,
I am writing today because the District was notified that we have a staff member at Van Buren Elementary School who has tested positive for COVID-19. District officials in conjunction with the Onondaga County Health Department immediately began its investigation, which is ongoing.
The staff member impacted was last in attendance on November 3 and is now in isolation. We can’t provide any additional information about this staff member due to confidentiality and privacy constraints.
The county Health Department is in the beginning stages of its contact tracing and investigation. They will be contacting the 8 students and 4 staff members who are required to quarantine. The quarantine is expected to end on November 17. The students impacted, who are part of our Buzz cohort, are expected to return to in-person instruction on November 19.
Out of an abundance of caution, we ask that families please keep an eye out for signs and symptoms as it takes 7 to 8 days after exposure. The District is taking precautions to protect the health and safety of its students and employees. We will continue to closely monitor this situation and communicate updates, if necessary.
At this time, the District has determined that there is no need to close Van Buren Elementary School. The District’s custodial staff will continue its regular deep cleaning and sanitizing practices at the school.
We appreciate your support and understanding on this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.
Sincerely,
Matthew J. McDonald
Superintendent of Schools
