Today (Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020), MESC received notice there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 at Ermineskin Kindergarten. This positive case was a result of community spread, NOT school spread. A COVID-19 outbreak within a MESC school setting is defined by Maskwacîs Health Services (MHS) as one or more confirmed cases (staff and/or student).
Out of respect to the 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 are working closely with MHS to define close contacts of the individual who tested positive within the school.
The health and safety of our students, staff and community is paramount. The following protocols have been enacted:
- The school is closed until Sept. 28,2020 to be cleaned, disinfected and quarantined.
- COHORT 1: They are NOT required to self-isolate as they were not directly exposed. They may return to school, as scheduled, on Tuesday, October 6th.
- COHORT 2: The entire student Cohort 2 at Ermineskin Kindergarten is required to self-isolate for 14 days and be tested. They may return to school on Tuesday, October 13th unless directed otherwise by MHS.
- STAFF: All staff are being tested. Those who have been in direct close contact will be directed to self-isolate under the direction of MHS.
The MESC COVID-19 advisory web page will be updated regularly to notify families of positive cases in their child’s school (no personal information will be shared).
MESC is committed to ensuring our Kiskinwahamawâkanak (Students) and Otatoskewak (Staff) have safe and healthy learning and working environments. We will continue our commitment to strict cleaning and disinfecting protocols, respiratory etiquette, physical distancing, using masks and hand washing protocols and practices.
It is essential for all students and staff to complete the daily self screening before entering the school and follow health and safety protocols in their school. Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 must stay home and complete the online self-assessment or call Health Link at 811. More information will be provided as needed. The “MESC Guidelines to Manage a Positive COVID-19 Case” can be found on our website. If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact your school.
