As we return to school, we are again faced with Covid challenges, this time it is the highly contagious Omicron variant. Omicron is much more transmissible than the Delta variant, however, estimates suggest that the hospital stay risk is much lower than Delta. There have been no local hospitalizations of school age children in the last several months and there are currently no pediatric hospitalizations. We certainly hope this continues to be the case..



As we are required to follow the new State directives, there will be no changes for students regarding mask use, however, masks are strongly encouraged while indoors.



Based on current advice from our health advisors, if a student tests positive, they should stay home for five days from the day of the test and can return if fever free and symptoms are improving. At this time, a negative Covid test is not required for a student to return to school after the five-day period.



According to state directives, quarantines are no longer required for an exposure to Covid. Since the health department is no longer contact tracing, parents should watch closely for any symptoms. If cold-like symptoms develop, students should remain home until symptoms improve.



We take our commitment to your child’s safety seriously and are working closely with the Leon County Department of Health to follow health guidelines and best practices during this time. We will continute to monitor the situation and keep you informed. The health and safety of our students is our highest priority.



Sincerely,



Rocky Hanna



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*SUNSHINE LAW AND PUBLIC RECORDS CAUTION: Florida has a very broad Public Records Law. Virtually all written communications to or from School Board of Leon County, Florida Personnel are public records available to the public and media upon request. E-mail sent or received on the LCSB system will be considered public and will only be withheld from disclosure if deemed confidential pursuant to State Law. Individual student records are deemed confidential.