November 8, 2020
Dear Catskill CSD Community:
I was contacted this morning by a representative from the Greene County Department of Public Health (GC DOPH) and informed that a Catskill High School student tested positive for COVID-19. The student’s last physical day in attendance was on Friday, October 23, 2020. The student began showing symptoms on November 2. Again, the student has not been present in the school and / or on campus for 16 days.
The necessary steps and protocols have been taken and all follow-up requirements have been adhered to. Since the student has not physically attended school for 16 days, the GC DOPH cleared us to open and continue with Hybrid in-person instruction for tomorrow, Monday, November 9 as planned.
The District continues to work closely with the GC DOPH and has followed all guidance provided by them. GC DOPH took the lead role in steps that were necessary, such as contact tracing or additional testing of individuals.
I want to reassure you that I take the health and safety of our children and staff very seriously. All buildings on campus continue to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, in accordance with guidance from the New York State Department of Health and the CDC. A deeper cleaning occurs on Wednesdays and Saturdays by a contracted cleaning service.
A daily screening is done for staff members prior to the start of the school day. A daily screening also occurs with students. I encourage you to check your child’s temperature at home before they come to school. Your cooperation with this screening and with our reopening plan is greatly appreciated and will help lead to a safer school environment.
In closing, if you have particular questions or concerns, you may wish to contact the Greene County DOPH at (518) 719-3600. In these challenging times, rest assured that the District’s priority is protecting the health, welfare, and safety of students and staff while complying with government orders and guidance related to the opening of schools.
As always, I can be reached at (518) 943-4696 for questions as well.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Ronel Cook,
Superintendent of Schools