Dear Parents,
There have been a few questions recently about closing school for current COVID-19 numbers. Last year, the HCHD set mandates for school closures. At the beginning of this school year when masks were optional, SSC had to send over 600 students home. With over 45% of our students out of school with COVID-19 or as close contacts, we had to close school. Masks optional did not work.
As we continue through this year, schools are left to the IDOE/IDOH 20% threshold. This is absence for all illnesses, including COVID-19, colds, flu, strep, etc…that would total 20% of a school building’s total student population. At this point, the highest reported SSC absence rate for student illness is at 11.5%, which is far from the 20% reporting threshold and consideration for closing schools.
Parents can assist the schools in keeping accurate records on absences by making sure you report the exact reason for your child’s absence. Please report specifically if it is COVID-19, flu, cold, strep, appointment, allergies, etc… This will assist the schools in determining accurate absence rates due to illness.
The SSC Mask Mandate does help keep children in school. Vaccines and immunizations also help keep children safe and in school.
Thank you for helping our schools stay open for children.