Dear Families,
Over the past week, I have been so impressed with how quickly our students, staff, and families have adjusted to all of the new safety protocols implemented this school year. Our students have stepped up and are wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and social distancing when possible. These are all essential practices that will help ensure that we can keep our schools open for in-person instruction.
However, there has been an increase in Livingston county COVID-19 cases both in regards to cases per million and positivity rate. Specifically, there has been an uptick in the number of positive cases among teenagers. The cases have been centered within the Hartland community and school district. Due to this, Hartland Consolidated Schools is transitioning its high school to remote learning temporarily.
I spoke with the LCHD Chief Medical Officer who confirmed that since these cases are currently centered in another community there is no need for us to switch to remote learning based on the current trends. However, this could change, based on the actions of our students. These cases are generally related to the activities of students outside of school. In turn, it is imperative that our students follow the advice of Dr. Juan Marquez, LCHD Chief Medical Officer, and avoid large gatherings (parties, etc.) outside of school as well as practice good public health practices like wearing a mask, washing their hands, and practicing social distancing outside of school. Lastly, parents, we are relying on you to keep students home when they are showing any signs of sickness and that you complete the student self-screening outlined in the Livingston County Health Department Back to School Parent Toolkit each day. Lastly, if for any reason your child is tested for COVID-19, they must stay home until you have the test results, even if they are asymptomatic. Following these guidelines will help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our district and community.
Sincerely,
Erin J. MacGregor, Ed.S.
Superintendent
Howell Public Schools
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