October 22, 2020
To our Sister Mary Phillips School families,
Alberta Health Services is working closely with Fort McMurray Catholic Schools to support and manage the safety of our schools. Today, Fort McMurray Catholic School Division received notice of a positive case of COVID-19 in relation to Sister Mary Phillips School. Alberta Health Services has advised this case is not the result of in school transmission. At this time, based on advice from AHS, Sister Mary Phillips School will remain open.
Parents/guardians of students who AHS deem to be close contacts and are required to self isolate will receive contact from Alberta Health Services shortly (24 to 48 hours) with additional information. Sister Mary Phillips School staff have already reached out to these families this afternoon. Virtual learning will be available for the continuation of student learning.
Alberta Government K-12 school re-entry guidance states that “If a student is a close contact of someone confirmed to have COVID-19, they must quarantine and stay home for 14 days . . . Additionally, all of these classmates should also be tested for COVID-19. Even if a classmate of a case is tested and the result is negative, they still must complete the 14 day quarantine.”
As we continue our focus on preventing the spread of COVID-19, our custodial services team has conducted enhanced cleaning protocols. Additional cleaning was completed and focused on areas where the individual was present, along with high-touch areas and surfaces throughout the school.
Out of respect to this individual and in accordance with Alberta Health Services guidelines, we cannot disclose personal details of the individual that has tested positive for COVID-19.
We remind families to monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 using the Alberta Health Screening Questionnaire. Please remember to complete the checklist each day prior to attending school. If you or a member of your family has any of the symptoms of illness listed, please fill out the online Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment or call Health Link at 811.
The health and safety of our staff, students and community is paramount. We know this news can be distressing for families and supports are available. Please be assured we will continue to work closely with Alberta Health Services to ensure we follow their ongoing recommendations.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Joel Canete, Principal- Sister Mary Phillips School
George McGuigan, Superintendent- Fort McMurray Catholic School Division