October 6, 2020
Dear Parent/Guardians:
This letter is to inform you that an individual at the Academy of Our Lady of Mount Carmel has tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). In accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and privacy concerns we are unable to disclose who has tested positive at this time but we are able to report they are currently showing no symptoms and are following all public health protocols.
The Academy is coordinating closely with public health officials and following and exceeding CDC, state, and local health department guidance to assure the health and safety of our community. The classroom affected has already been thoroughly disinfected and since the beginning of the academic year features two GermGuardian Air Purifiers.
While we are not required to, I have determined, out of an abundance of caution, that the class involved and their siblings will be working remotely for the next two weeks. The affected class has already been informed.
The local board of health has been positive towards our school’s protocol and plans and has provided direction to the school moving forward.
Please bear in mind, if there happens to be another positive case, the entire school community will work remotely for the next two weeks.
We understand the level of concern regarding COVID-19. We encourage parents and students to continue to follow the Center for Disease Control & Prevention promoted safeguards, such as:
Staying home when you are sick
Washing hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds
Covering coughs and sneezes and properly disposing of tissues;
Limiting close contact with people who are sick and not sharing food, drinks and utensils;
Practicing social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart);
Wearing a face covering while in school; and
Continue monitoring your health for symptoms.
As always, we appreciate our community’s support and cooperation. You can assist us by remaining vigilant but sensible in your approach to dealing with this health concern. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at bverdonck@nullacademyolmc.org. Below are some resources that might be helpful.
RESOURCES
NJDOH COVID-19 Information for Communities and the General Public: https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/
Get the Facts about Coronavirus: https://www.cdc.gov/
Symptoms of COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/
Testing: https://www.cdc.gov/
How to Protect Yourself: https://www.cdc.gov/
What to Do if You Are Sick: https://www.cdc.gov/
Sincerely,
Ms Verdonck
Principal