Dear Eatontown School Community Member:
Over the course of the last few weeks, I have received questions regarding public notification if the district learns of a positive case within our school community. On page 51 of the Restart and Recovery Plan to Reopen Schools, the district outlines the general procedures for contact tracing and community notification.
Since COVID-19 is a virus that can spread similar to the common cold or flu, it is expected that the district, despite its best efforts, will identify a positive case or cases this school year. Health and safety decisions will be made in consultation with the Monmouth County Health Department. In addition, public notification of a positive case will be made in collaboration with local health officials. There is a fine balance between transparency and individual health/privacy concerns due to HIPAA regulations.
Eatontown Public Schools clearly understands the level of concern regarding COVID-19 in the community. The district encourages school community members to continue to follow the CDC safeguards, including:
- 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, or utensils;
- Practicing social distancing (staying six feet apart);
- Wearing a face covering while in school; and
- Continuing to monitor your health for symptoms.
As always, the district appreciates your help and support in this process. Please remain vigilant but sensible in your approach to maintaining your health and safety. Stay well.
Sincerely,
Scott T. McCue
Superintendent of Schools