The quarantined students will return to in-person learning Monday (Oct. 26), reports Superintendent Dara Chezem.

An email letter was sent by the superintendent to parents and guardians of EPES students on Oct. 12, notifying them of the situation. Parents of students who were considered to have been in ‘close contact’ with the student who tested positive received a phone call the same day from Principal Jill Collins or a school nurse. “Close contact” is defined as being within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes of someone who has tested positive.

Due to privacy laws, no information about the affected student can be shared.

Chezem also reports that during fall break last week, the school custodians disinfected and deep cleaned all buildings, including a special emphasis on the classroom of the quarantined students.

A second letter, dated Oct. 18, was emailed informing parents of the precautions taken.

Coronavirus cases in Pulaski County and the surrounding area have risen significantly in the last two weeks. Other area schools have reported a handful of cases among students and staff, including West Central, Rochester, Oregon Davis and Knox, where various measures such as quarantine and eLearning have been enacted.

“We appreciate your continued help with screening your child each morning for symptoms,” Chezem wrote to parents in her letter. “Please keep your child home if they are showing any signs of being sick. If you have any questions, please contact me, your child's building principal, or the school nurse. Thank you for your continued support.”