ATHABASCA - A second positive case of COVID-19 was reported at Edwin Parr Composite School in Athabasca March 24, following a single case that was reported earlier the same day.
A media release from Aspen View Public Schools that evening stated 60 close contacts connected to the second case, along with four staff members, were directed to stay home for two weeks.
Earlier in the day, Aspen View reported 22 students, eight staff members, along with 21 other EPC students were confirmed as close contacts through student transportation. Further details will not be provided to protect the privacy of those affected.
“Aspen View and EPC administration are diligently following Alberta Health Services guidance to ensure the necessary steps are taken to protect the health and safety of students and staff,” Supt. Neil O’Shea said in the release.
Prior to the two new cases at EPC, 103 staff members across the division were directed to self-isolate, along with 511 students and an additional 98 students who were deemed close contacts through riding the same school bus. These are the first new school cases in Athabasca since January, when one case was detected in an individual tied to the Centre for Alternative & Virtual Education (CAVE), which was followed by another case a week later in an individual connected to Landing Trail Secondary School.
Aspen View reminds parents and guardians, as well as staff, to monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. The Alberta Health daily checklist can be found here. The school division asks the checklist be completed each day prior to attending school.
If any of the core symptoms listed on the Alberta Health daily checklist are observed, it is advised to keep your child at home and fill out the online Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment or call Health Link at 811.
