The following email was sent to the Kamehameha Schools ʻohana on Tuesday, February 16, 2021.
Aloha mai kākou,
We were notified recently that a KS Kapālama student tested positive for COVID-19. The KS COVID-19 Response Team (CRT) determined that this individual did not acquire the virus from a KS employee, student or facility. The CRT is in communication with the student who is now in isolation. As part of our KS COVID-19 response procedures, this affected student will not return to school until cleared to do so by their physician or the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health.
The CRT also notified close contacts with this individual to quarantine and monitor any symptoms that may develop. We thank the student and their ʻohana who immediately notified the CRT of the results, as it allowed us to take immediate action against further spread of COVID-19.
We understand that this is a stressful time and situation for many. It is also an opportunity for us to come together and support one another with aloha. We can only begin to imagine the stress caused by this situation, and we must be there for this individual with compassion and care. As an ʻohana, we need to lift one another up, so in addition to keeping them in your thoughts and prayers, we kindly ask that you respect the privacy of this individual and their family.
The CRT notifies the KS community of positive cases as they are reported. Additional information is available at the COVID-19 website and summarized weekly.
We know 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 health care 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.
Please be assured that your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. If you have any questions, please reach out to the KS CRT at covid19help@ksbe.edu.
Me ke aloha,
The KS COVID-19 Response Team