OHS & OSMS Building Closure 11/16-17/2020
Posted on 11/15/2020
November 15, 2020

Today, the District was notified that a student at Oneida High School has tested positive for COVID-19. Additionally, the student who tested positive has a sibling in the home who attends Otto Shortell Middle School. District officials in conjunction with the County Health Departments immediately began their investigation, which is ongoing. The District is not
permitted due to privacy laws to identify the student involved and
we have provided as much information as possible.

The Madison and Oneida County Departments of Health will take the lead role in any further steps that may be necessary, such as contact tracing and additional testing. In the event that you are contacted by a health department representative, we encourage you to offer your complete cooperation.

In addition to taking immediate steps to contact trace, the district
will also deep clean and sanitize any potentially impacted area as per the health department and U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. As a result of this need, both Oneida High School and Otto Shortell Middle School will be closed on Monday 11/16/2020 and Tuesday 11/17/2020 to provide time to contact trace and deep clean. The district will notify you if we need to close for a longer period of time. While OHS and OSMS are closed, students will be learning remotely. Each building principal will send parents, staff and students information regarding the remote schedule.

Please know that the district’s priority is protecting the health, welfare and safety of students and staff while complying with any government orders and guidance related to COVID-19 and
school operation.

We appreciate your support and understanding on this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out.

Sincerely,
Mary-Margaret Zehr
Superintendent

parent letter regarding closure.pdf