The East Greenbush Central School District was informed today that a Columbia High School student, who was a close contact with a student in attendance at the social gathering on Halloween, tested positive for COVID-19. The district had confirmed previously all of the students involved were being tested for COVID-19.

The student’s last day of school attendance was November 9.

Although not part of New York State guidance, the district strongly encourages families with a known contact to keep other siblings at home until the county health department gives clearance for the contact to return to school. This will help prevent any potential community spread.

As the number of cases of COVID-19 increases in our country and New York State, the district would like to remind everyone to maintain the strong habits we are developing as a school community:

• Avoid large gatherings such as parties or unstructured situations which involve larger numbers of people coming into contact with each other.
• Wear masks at all times when out in public, particularly when you cannot socially distance or when participating in such activities as club sports.
• Wash hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly. Use hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible.
• Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and in the event someone is sick, contact your primary care provider.

The district appreciates the community’s continued forthright communication as we all work together to keep our community healthy.

In the event that further developments occur or if additional information regarding this matter becomes available to our school district, the school community will be kept informed.

Those with questions are advised to call the county health department directly at 518-270-2655 or contact the district’s COVID-19 Coordinator at Columbia High School at 518-207-2180.