[EDIT: Some observant readers tell me the school’s statement is not showing the full picture and that the Freshman Squad is still playing. The district tells me the statement will likely be updated on Monday as will this story. Thanks, observant readers!]
From the Snoqualmie Valley School District-
Working closely with King County Public Health, the Snoqualmie Valley school district has learned that multiple individuals participating in the Mount Si High School football game on Saturday, March 20th, have tested positive for COVID-19. After an investigation to identify potential close contacts at risk of exposure, the school district follows the guidance of public health to quarantine MSHS football players, support staff and coaches – to curb further spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, this will conclude football season for this school year. Students and staff impacted were notified on March 24th, with directions to quarantine at home.
“This was a heartbreaking decision that we understand is especially disappointing to our student-athletes, coaches and families who have so eagerly anticipated their season. Even so, this decision is necessary for the safety of our students and staff,” explained Snoqualmie Valley Superintendent Robert Manahan. “We are taking this action according to DOH recommendations in order to contain the spread of COVID. There is concern that without this quarantine period, we would risk continuing the spread into school — which could result in halting our efforts to bring back all students to in-person learning.”
This week, Mount Si High School students began returning to school for in person learning on a Hybrid A/B Learning schedule. Freshman started on Monday/Tuesday, seniors are returning today and tomorrow (Thursday/Friday), and sophomore and juniors are scheduled to return next week. NOTE: This quarantine does not impact the re-opening of Mount Si High School at this time. Rather, the students who have been notified to quarantine are expected to continue learning remotely at home (unless they become ill) so they do not fall behind in their classes.
During this pandemic, it is the goal of SVSD to keep families informed of COVID-19 positive cases impacting the school and district facilities, while also protecting the privacy of individuals. The identity of individuals confirmed or exposed will remain confidential, in accordance with privacy laws. Because this was a school event, they want the community to be aware and on the look-out for COVID-19 symptoms as others may have been in close contact outside of school. Close contact is defined by public health as being within 6 feet (2 meters) of someone for 15 minutes or more, or if someone with COVID-19 coughed on you, kissed you, or shared utensils with you.
What are the common symptoms of COVID-19?
Most COVID-19 cases are mild with fever and cough. Adults and children with COVID-19 have reported the following symptoms or combinations of symptoms, which may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus:
- Fever of 100.4°F / 38°C or higher
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Other signs of new illness that are unrelated to a preexisting condition (such as seasonal allergies)
This list does not include all possible symptoms. To learn more, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website regarding COVID-19 symptoms. Consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
How can I protect myself and my family from COVID-19?
- Stay home as much as possible. Minimize contact with people who do not live with you. Work from home when possible.
- When outside your home, practice physical distancing by staying at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from others.
- Avoid group gatherings and poorly ventilated areas.
- Wear a cloth face covering that covers your nose and mouth when you are in a public place, including outdoors if you cannot stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from others.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer (60% alcohol or greater). Do not use sanitizer on students under age two.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
- Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects (like doorknobs and light switches). Regular use of EPA-registered household disinfectants are recommended.
- Check CDC’s Travel Guidance if you or your family are traveling within the United States or overseas.
Find additional COVID-19 information at www.kingcounty.gov/covid.
If Mount Si High School families have questions or concerns regarding COVID-19, please contact school nurse Amy McCrery at mccrerya@svsd410.org or 425-831-8100. Also, King County’s COVID-19 Call Center is available between 8 AM – 7 PM at 206-477-3977. Interpreters are available.
