Dear Families,
Although we’ve had a great start to the new school year, this evening, I am writing to inform you that there were four students who tested positive for COVID-19 between the two elementary schools today. All elementary parents received a general notice from the school principals informing them that there were positive cases on campus. COVID cases are also reported on the SMUSD COVID Dashboard. Those students who were identified to have been in close contact, as defined by the Los Angeles County Department of Health (LACDPH), received a separate notification from the school informing parents that their child is required to quarantine for 7-10 days. The District is following all LACDPH Guidance to keep our students safe.
The District is committed to full in-person instruction. To assist in the expediency of screening, monitoring, and reporting of all COVID cases, as required by LACDPH, the District is in the process of hiring temporary COVID compliance support staff. There are five positions available that will be funded with one-time Covid funding.
As an important reminder, if your child is experiencing COVID-like symptoms (cough, fever, or difficulty breathing), please do not bring your child to school and report the absence to the administrative assistant by calling the front office at the school your child attends. If your child has tested positive, it is important that you notify the school administrative assistant in the same manner.
We are also continuing to evaluate physical distancing at meal-serving locations and classrooms. For example, the middle school has added additional outdoor seating to accommodate students while eating lunch outside. A similar process is underway at our other schools.
Your child’s health and safety are of utmost importance to the District. I want to assure you that during this uncertain time, we will do our absolute best to keep you informed as things evolve.
Cordially,
Dr. Linda de la Torre
Acting Superintendent
