Since our last update, we have learned of five new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our school community.
Three members of the Watervliet Elementary School community and two members of the Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School community have tested positive for COVID-19. Based on contact tracing protocols from the Albany County Health Department, all individuals identified as having potential exposure at school have been notified and advised of the need to quarantine and monitor for symptoms.
We 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.
In addition to the vaccine, proper use of face masks and social distancing play important roles in mitigating the spread of the virus and in determining who must quarantine. Please remind children of the importance of continuing to wear face masks properly when indoors at school, during the school day, and after school.
With high community transmission in Albany County at this time, it is important that child(ren) be kept 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 information is 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.
A reminder that we will report new positive cases twice weekly – on Mondays and Fridays. We will post this information on our website and share notifications via One Call Now email. You may check the NYS COVID-19 Dashboard for daily updates about any new cases in our schools.
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 Friday, Sept. 17 via One Call Now email.)