Prairie City School identifies two positive COVID-19 cases

By Logan Bagett on Wednesday, March 10th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories

PRAIRIE CITY – According to a release from Prairie City School Superintendent Casey Hallgarth, on March 9^th the school found out that there are two positive COVID-19 cases within Prairie City School District No. 4.

Hallgarth said they are working closely with the Grant County Health Department to monitor these cases, as well as to conduct contact tracing. At last update, district officials have decided to continue with in-person learning and will closely evaluate the next few days for any changes. Find Mr. Hallgarth’s full letter to the community below:

Dear Parents and Community,

The recent new cases of COVID in our community has heightened our awareness. Our school currently has two positive cases. We are working close with Grant County Health Department and are in constant contact taking steps to keep schools open but with safety as the top priority. Ours chool is operating with an abundance of caution assuring our students remain safe. We are adhering to our blueprint and at this time there are no changes with our school staying open. The staff are preparing for scenarios that could modify our on-site instruction model. We are continuing our safety and cleaning measures in all buildings and have reminded students and staff about the importance of following the protocols established at the beginning of the year.

Our school needs our community to follow the recommendations of the Grant County Health Department.

·Wear mask indoors and wear a mask outdoors if 6 feet of distancing cannot be maintained.

·Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

·Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

·Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

·Stay home if you feel ill.

After someone contracts COVID-19, if they develop symptoms, they will usually appear within 14 days. Symptoms include:

·Fever or chills

·Cough

·Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

·Fatigue

·Muscle or body aches

·Headache

·New loss of taste or smell

·Sore throat

·Congestion or runny nose

·Nausea or vomiting

·Diarrhea

We appreciate your support as a parent and as a community member in your efforts to keep our students in school. Please continue to check our webpages and social media sites for continued updates.

Sincerely,

Casey Hallgarth