Dear MPH Families,
 
I am writing to report that one of our Upper School parents informed us today that they tested positive for COVID-19. This parent was last on campus on March 12, but never exited their vehicle and had no interactions with members of our community, except their child, who has tested negative for the virus.
 
While this news is difficult for this family and the MPH community, and we all hope for a full return to good health, the report of this positive test result is not surprising. Based on information from the New York State Department of Health, there is now an assumption that many have been exposed to the virus and there are many who have it, including individuals who are asymptomatic.
 
I will use this opportunity to reinforce several important messages:
 
  • Please follow the directive of Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order and stay at home, limit personal contact, and exercise appropriate social distancing protocols;
 
  • Redouble your commitment to CDC-recommended hygiene protocols, most importantly, consistent effective hand washing;


  • If you or a member of your immediate family is exhibiting symptoms of the infection, i.e. fever, cough or shortness of breath, is in self-quarantine, is awaiting COVID-19 test results, or has tested positive for COVID-19, please inform our school nurse, Christine Civello (cell: 315-383-4792), who is monitoring the health of the MPH community and will responsibly maintain confidentiality.
 
In addition to sending best wishes to this parent and their family, I also appreciate that the Department of Health has initiated contact tracing and is reaching out to any individuals who may have had contact with this parent prior to their self-isolation. 
 
Thank you, as always, for our close working partnership. On a daily basis, I am inspired by the MPH community – our students, our families, and my colleagues. To borrow and repurpose something our governor said recently and apply it to our MPH community, while “…we may be socially distanced, we remain spiritually connected. We will overcome this challenge, and we will be stronger for it.”
 
Sincerely,
 

Dave McCusker