The following letter went out to the KSBE ‘Ohana on Monday, August 10, 2020:
Aloha mai kākou,
Today we were notified that a second KS employee based at our Kalihi-Pālama Preschool tested positive for COVID-19. Our KS COVID Response Team (CRT) determined that this individual did not acquire the virus from a KS employee or facility and is not connected to the first case reported earlier this month at this site. We notified members of our staff who were determined to be “close contacts” with the individual and asked them to quarantine and monitor any symptoms that may develop. As the school year for preschools begins on August 12, including full distance learning for KS’ Oʻahu-based preschools, no children were on site.
A KS CRT member is in communication with our employee who is now in isolation. As part of our KS COVID-19 response procedures, this affected employee will not return to work until cleared to do so by their physician.
We thank the KS employee who immediately notified their supervisor of the results, which allowed us to take immediate action against further spread of COVID-19. This is an extremely difficult time for all those impacted by this incident. We ask for your support in ensuring they are given the privacy and aloha they need to care for themselves and their ʻohana. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
We will continue to work diligently, follow our internal protocols and increased cleaning efforts to provide a clean and safe place for our students, faculty and staff at all times.
We understand this news could be unsettling to some and you may find it comforting to speak to someone. We encourage you to reach out to your family’s healthcare provider if needed.
Visit the CDC’s website to learn more about and recognize symptoms of COVID-19. Refer to ksbe.edu for the latest updates regarding the coronavirus and changes within our facilities and steps we’ve taken to ensure safe learning environments for our kumu and haumāna.
Me ke aloha,
The KS COVID-19 Response Team