We learned of two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our school community since our last update. Both are members of the Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School community who have tested positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing was completed as per Albany County Department of Health protocols and all individuals identified as having potential exposure at school have been notified and advised of the need to quarantine and monitor for symptoms.

We continue to encourage all eligible students (12 and older) and staff members to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their families and their communities. Visit the Albany County Department of Health website for a list of vaccination sites, or contact your health care provider.

At this time, community transmission in Albany County remains at a high level. Please remember that symptomatic students or staff members should NOT come to school. The same advice goes for someone who knows they have been exposed to COVID-19. Do not come to school, but call the school nurse or your health care provider for further instructions.

It is important for families to keep child(ren) home from school if they are exhibiting any of the following 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.

COVID-19 testing in school is available for students every Tuesday. We will only test students whose parents/guardians have provided their consent. If you wish to take advantage of this opportunity, please register your child(ren) and provide consent for COVID-19 testing directly through the Quadrant Biosciences app.

NOTE: To participate in testing, all students and staff must create an account with Quadrant Biosciences.

Learn more about the district’s COVID-19 Testing Plan

Testing information is also available by calling the New York State Department of Health COVID-19 Hotline at 888-364-3065, the Whitney M. Young Jr. Health Center at 518-407-0172, or contact your health care provider. Visit the Albany County Department of Health website for information and local test sites.

We share updates about new positive cases twice each week by posting the information on our website and through One Call Now email notifications to families and staff. For daily updates about any new cases in our schools, you may check the NYS COVID-19 Report Card.

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

(This notification was sent to WCSD families and staff on Monday, Oct. 25 via One Call Now email.)