Dear Parents and Guardians,
In an effort to establish and maintain open lines of communication and transparency, on 10/15/20, we were notified that we may have experienced the presence of a case of COVID-19 in our high school. On that note, we have been in close communication with the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) and have been following their guidance and directions. Through the DOH’s investigative process it has been determined that 1) the student in question has not been in the high school building or on school property since October 9, 2020, 2) due to infection timelines, the student was not contagious during the timeframe of being present in school, and 3) did not become infected as a result of being in school; therefore, according to the DOH, no further action is warranted. As with all COVID-19 cases, the DOH will conduct all contact tracing and notification of individuals that may require further instruction and information. Moreover, at this juncture, schools will remain open unless we receive notice otherwise from the DOH.
COVID-19 is a disease that is capable of rapidly spreading person-to-person. If someone is infected, that person can expose other people to COVID-19 even if they show no symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19 may include cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever or chills, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk for serious illness.
If you or any members of your household develop symptoms of COVID-19 or have symptoms worsen, notify your local health department or the Pennsylvania Department of Health immediately at 1-877-724-3258 and contact a health care provider. Before seeking medical attention, let the health care provider know about the possible exposure to a case of COVID-19.
Please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website (www.health.pa.gov) for the latest and most accurate information about COVID-19.
In closing, the Laurel Highlands School District is concerned about the health and well-being of you, your family, and the general public during this outbreak. We understand that this is a difficult time and that some individuals may need additional support during this period. Please reach out to us if you or your family need additional assistance regarding this correspondence.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jesse T. Wallace, III
Superintendent
jesse.wallace@lhsd.org