Cheerleader tests positive after HSSD cheer workout

A cheerleader who was on the Hot Springs World Class High School campus last week for a cheer workout has tested positive for COVID-19, the first positive case in the school district, school officials said.

On Saturday, the school district posted on its Facebook page that the family notified one of the coaches that their child had tested positive.

“Cheerleaders were following procedures from the ADH during practice including pre-practice health screenings, social distancing and the wearing of masks. All cheerleaders have also been practicing outdoors. The district followed established procedures that included immediately contacting the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH),” the post said.

“Our thoughts are with the student and family who has tested positive,” Superintendent Stephanie Nehus said.

The district will continue to “vigilantly follow” all Arkansas Department of Health safety guidelines in hosting organized events on campus. The safety of the students is the district’s top priority, as they also work to slowly and cautiously reopen the campuses and programs to the kids, she said.

“HSSD is following all recommendations from the (ADH), Arkansas Department of Education, and in the specific context of athletes — the Arkansas Activities Association and ADH to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safest campuses and programs possible for our students,” Adriane Barnes, communications and public relations coordinator, said Monday.

She said that cheerleading falls under the Arkansas Department of Health “Directive for Gym, Fitness Center, Athletic Club and Weight Room Reopening,” which is available on the ADH website.

According to the Arkansas Department of Health, the proper spacing from others while working out is at least 12 feet, noting that this may cause for closing or moving some equipment.

“Spacing between individuals may be reduced to 6 feet if an impermeable barrier is placed between each individual or piece of equipment in use,” ADH says.

“Health screenings are being completed for all staff and students involved with organized athletic programs and practices as outlined in the directive,” Barnes said.

She said that in coordination with the ADH, which was contacted on Saturday as soon as the family contacted the district, it was determined that no students were in close contact with the student who tested positive. ADH defines close contact as within the 6-foot range for at least 15 minutes.

“While ADH contact tracers are continuing to investigate — at this time, there are no students who were considered in close contact with our student who tested positive,” Barnes said.

“ADH contact tracers will contact any students who should be made aware of the situation and tested for COVID-19,” she said.