We have learned of seven new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our school community since our last update.

Three members of the elementary school community and four individuals from our junior/senior high school community have tested positive for COVID-19. Contract tracing was completed as per Albany County Department of Health protocols, and all individuals identified as having potential exposure at school have been notified.

A reminder that during the holiday break it is up to all of us to do our part to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. With the most recent variant, we have seen an uptick in cases in schools that has resulted in numerous students being excluded from school due to exposures. Please help us keep students in school by following safety practices recommended by the CDC: avoid crowded holiday gatherings; encourage the use of facemasks that cover noses and mouths; maintain social distance from others who do not live in your household; get tested if you’ve been exposed; consider vaccinations/boosters; wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer.

During the holiday recess, we will continue to report new cases on the NYS COVID-19 Dashboard as we are made aware of them and provide a summary of cases to our faculty, staff, and families when we return to school on Monday, January 3. If contact tracing is required, we will reach out to the affected individuals. If there is significant news to share, we will send an email, phone call, or text via our One Call Now system, as needed.

Meals available for pick up Monday

Families in need of meals during the holiday recess can pick up five (5) days-worth of breakfasts and lunches on Monday, December 27 from 9-11 a.m. at the Watervliet Elementary School.

We are grateful for your continued support and wish our students, families, teachers and staff a safe, peaceful and happy holiday recess!

(This notification was shared with WCSD families and staff on Thursday, Dec. 23 via One Call Now email.)