Dear Bolivar-Richburg CSD Parents/Guardians:
We are writing to notify you that we have been informed by the Allegany County Department of Health that a student(s) or staff member(s) has been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This person was on school premises and did have direct exposure with other members of our school community. As a school district our number one priority is the health and safety of all our students and staff.
Students in grades 6-12 will learn remotely through December 18, 2020. All students in grades PreK – 5 will continue to attend in-person classes on their current schedule. Students in grades 6-12 may return to hybrid learning after the break on Monday, January 4, 2021.
We will continue to transport students to BOCES and special education placements.
We are working closely with the Allegany County Health Department to identify anyone who had close contact with the person to determine if they might have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. If you or your child are identified as having been potentially exposed, the Allegany County Health Department will contact you to ask that you please stay home and monitor for symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, or a temperature higher than 100.0F, and practice social distancing for 14 days from your last contact. If you are not contacted by the health department, you do not need to stay home or exclude yourself from activities at this time.
Parents should continue to monitor their child’s health and the health of their families for COVID-19 symptoms. Children with COVID-19 generally have mild, cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported in some children.
Children with certain underlying medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma, serious heart conditions, or weak immune systems, might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Contact your child's healthcare provider regarding any concerns.
People without symptoms do not need to seek care or be tested. Those who become ill should contact their healthcare provider. Their doctor, in consultation with public health officials, will determine appropriate care and whether testing is necessary. If your child has been exposed to or diagnosed with COVID-19, please report this to your school. This information will be kept confidential.
Schools continue to utilize Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations on Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, to reduce viral transmission and keep our children and school personnel healthy and safe.
Parents and family members can assist this effort by promoting healthy behaviors and following these practices:
● Stay home from school or work if sick, even if symptoms are mild.
● Wear a face covering in areas where physical distancing is difficult to maintain.
● Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue (or sleeve), and then throw the tissue in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
● Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
● Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
● Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched.
● Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
● Take care of your health overall. Stay current on your vaccinations, including the flu vaccine, eat well, and exercise to help your body stay resilient.
The New York State Department of Health provides information about COVID-19 and frequently asked questions (FAQ) for parents and concerned family members. The CDC offers tips to keep children healthy during this time.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please reach out to your primary physician, your school nurse, our district offices at (585) 928-2937 or the Allegany County Department of Health may be reached at (585) 268-9250.
We appreciate all your assistance in trying to keep everyone healthy during these times.
Respectfully,
Michael A. Retzlaff,
Superintendent of School
Bolivar-Richburg CSD
