The district learned Wednesday of a positive case of COVID-19 in the Abram Lansing Elementary School community. District leaders are working closely with the health department to supply contact tracing information. Any students or staff members who were considered a close or proximate contact have been contacted by Abram Lansing Principal Cliff Bird and will also be contacted by the Department of Health to discuss the need to quarantine and other related information. Students in quarantine will receive remote instruction.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other privacy laws restrict the district from disclosing or confirming any personally identifiable information and we cannot identify anyone who has tested positive.
As you may know, our elementary schools utilize a pod system to reduce exposure in the event of a positive COVID case. With that system and numerous additional health and safety protocols in effect, Abram Lansing will remain open for in-person instruction.
The continued efforts by our families to keep our school community healthy and safe is greatly appreciated. Statewide data indicates that schools are seeing a much lower rate of positive cases than their surrounding communities and have not been the source of community spread.
Please remember that the best plan for addressing the COVID-19 virus is to remain informed and follow these steps to help contain the spread of the virus:
- Keep at least a 6-foot distance between you and others when out in the community — even if you don’t feel sick or have any symptoms
- Wear a snug-fitting surgical or cloth face mask that covers your nose and mouth
- Stay home when you are sick
- Call your healthcare provider in advance of a visit
- Limit visitors to your home
As part of our reopening health and safety plan, our school continues to follow all prevention protocols in accordance with guidelines from the New York State Health Department and CDC — this includes a thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all school buildings, proper social distancing (6 feet), mask-wearing, as well as daily health screenings for all students and staff.
We will continue to work closely with the Department of Health and communicate any necessary updates via ParentSquare and our district website.