Since our last update, we have learned of the following positive cases of COVID-19 in our school community:

• 19 from Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School, and
• 15 from Watervliet Elementary School.

Although we have greatly reduced our contact tracing protocols in accordance with the most recent health department guidelines, we will continue to reach out directly to families of students who are at higher risk of exposure. Read more about the recent changes to protocols

We will continue to send out updates twice each week, for daily positive COVID-19 cases affecting our district, please visit the NYS COVID-19 Report Card.

Need test kits?

At-home COVID-19 test kits will be available for our district families to pick up at the main entrance (one kit per student) on Tuesday, Jan. 25 from 5-7 p.m. at Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School.

A reminder that we can provide one test per student. Please report any positive test results from an at-home tests to your child’s school nurse (at the phone numbers listed below).

• Watervliet Elementary School: Sue Vogel, nurse 518-629-3402
• Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School: Racheal Thomas, nurse 518-629-3304

State and local health officials provided these tests as a resource to schools and families to help monitor the spread of COVID-19 within our community as part of an ongoing effort to keep our school buildings open for in-person instruction. Tests can be utilized whether or not a student is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

Important reminders

Please remember that symptomatic students and staff members should NOT come to school. Similarly, it is important for families to keep child(ren) home from school if they are exhibiting COVID symptoms: Fever or chills; cough; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; fatigue; muscle or body aches; headaches; new loss of taste or smell; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; nausea or vomiting; or diarrhea.

We continue to encourage eligible students and staff members to get fully vaccinated (and a booster, if eligible) to protect themselves, their families and their communities. COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available for students who are 5 years and older through our Whitney Young School-Based Health Clinic at WJSHS. Call 518-629-3270 to make an appointment.

Your cooperation and support of our schools is appreciated as we continue to work together to make this a safe, healthy and successful school year for our students, staff and families. Thank you.

(This message was shared with WCSD families and staff via One Call Now email on Jan. 21.)