New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Hamden elementary school employee diagnosed with COVID-19
HAMDEN — A staff member at Helen Street Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19, officials confirmed Thursday.
Superintendent of Schools Jody Goeler said in a letter to the school community that he was notified Wednesday night of the case.
Goeler said the administration has informed anyone who was in “close contact” with the staff member and has given them instructions on next steps. Goeler didn’t specify how many other members of the school community may have been affected or required to selfisolate.
“I wish to express my profound hope that our staff member experiences a rapid and complete recovery,” Goeler said.
The administration sent an automated call to parents across the district informing them of the staff member who tested positive.
“We are closely monitoring this situation will provide you with updates as we know more,” Goeler told families.
Because elementary schools are structured as cohorts, students and staff members who have not been in close contact with the employee are able to remain in school, Goeler said.
Hamden public school students returned to class Tuesday under a hybrid model that alternates inperson schooling and learning remotely, but about 30 percent of students have opted for full remote learning.
This is the first confirmed case of coronavirus to appear in the school since students returned.
“This incident highlights the need for us all to remain vigilant and to continue our efforts to mitigate the risk of this disease,” Goeler said, urging people to continue practicing preventive measures.