12-10-21 Letter to Parents - Guardians and Team Members School No. 25 K-013

December 10, 2021

Dear Parents, Guardians and Team Members of EHS – FJC 9th Grade Academy,

The Elizabeth Public Schools prioritizes the health and safety of all team members. We became aware today that an individual tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently self-isolating. We are unable to identify the individual due to the confidentiality of medical information. The District remains vigilant during these unprecedented times. We are following all our approved procedures in accordance with the New Jersey Department of Health and our 2021-2022 Guidebook.

In the K–12 indoor classroom setting, the close contact definition excludes students who were within 3 to 6 feet of an infected student (laboratory-confirmed or a clinically compatible illness) where both the infected student and the exposed student(s) correctly and consistently wore well-fitting masks the entire time. In addition, parents/guardians of any individual at Elizabeth High School – Frank J. Cicarell 9th Grade Academy Annex has one or more classes with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 have already been notified.

We are hopeful that the mitigation measures we have in place, such as universal masking, screening procedures, social distancing, enhanced cleaning procedures, and other precautions, will have their intended effect and reduce or minimize the risk of transmission in the school environment. We encourage parents, students and team members to continue following the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention promoted safeguards, such as:

• Consistent and correct use of masks
• Social distancing to the largest extent possible
• Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
• Cleaning and disinfection
• Contact tracing in collaboration with local health department

Thank you for your support in these efforts and your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we work together to promote the health and well-being of our community.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 908-436-6131 or hugelmol@epsnj.org.

Olga Hugelmeyer