October 5, 2021
Dear Coos Bay Schools Community,
Since last week we have seen several students return to school who were out for quarantine due to positive cases or potential exposure. We realize that quarantines can be inconvenient for families. However, they are an important way for us to continue to slow the spread and keep our doors open.
Our number of impact cases are down from a week ago. Currently we have 15 positive cases within our school district population who have been traced and quarantined. Because of these cases we had to quarantine, out of an abundance of caution and potential exposure, 1 elementary classroom as well as 23 individuals, down from 41 last week, who were potential exposures. Part of the quarantine group is a cohort from a local after school program. We have students who have been kept home due to symptoms and we appreciate that greatly and hope to see them back in school soon. We have successfully been able to trace each of our impact cases and have communicated with all students, families, and staff who may be a potential exposure.
We realize the need to keep the public informed about the impacts of COVID-19 in our schools. The district will be providing updates on a weekly basis. We will also continue to work with Coos Health and Wellness to identify and trace any cases that may impact our schools. As cases come up, we will immediately communicate directly with families who may be considered an exposure. As we have been able to successfully manage the impact cases so far, we will continue with in-person learning in all our schools. Although our county cases remain high, they have begun to decrease. We hope to see this trend continue moving forward. Please help us keep our doors open by making good decisions and following public safety protocols.
The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is through staying home when ill, wearing face
coverings, physical distancing, and practicing good health hygiene habits. Be sure to wash your
hands frequently with soap and water, cover your coughs and sneezes, and avoid contact with
people who have signs of illness. Get plenty of rest, exercise, and eat a healthy diet. Protect the
community by following Oregon Health Authority guidelines. Wearing cloth face coverings and maintaining social distancing reduces the spread of virus.
We will keep you updated with any new information as it comes out, while meeting the
requirements to honor everyone's right to privacy.
Sincerely,
Bryan Trendell
Coos Bay Public Schools
Superintendent