On May 16, Proviso Township High Schools District 209 families were notified by Superintendent James Henderson that there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 at both Proviso East and Proviso West high schools.
The letter states that “an individual” at each school has tested positive for COVID-19.
“We are coordinating our efforts with the Cook County Department of Public Health [CCDPH] to promptly identify and monitor individuals who have had recent contact with the COVID-19 positive individual(s) to prevent further spread within our school and community. We have already contacted any individuals who we are aware may have been in close contact with the individual who tested positive for COVID-19,” reads the letter from Henderson.
The letter outlines steps the district is taking to attempt to stop further spread of the disease. These steps include:
- Quarantining staff and students, following CCDPH policy, who have been identified as having had prolonged close contact with the infected individuals.
- Monitoring students and staff for signs of illness and evaluating any illness promptly.
- Deep cleaning of areas throughout the schools that may have been exposed to the virus.
- Ensuring COVID-19 testing onsite for students and staff.
Additionally, any students or staff presenting at D209 schools with symptoms will be placed in a separate area until they can be sent home.
Students attending classes in-person must wear a mask at all times, and staff must wear a mask when in contact with others while in D209 facilities.
High-touch surfaces are being “continuously” sanitized.
Questions can be directed to the district at 708-338-5928.
“I appreciate each of you and your continued efforts to stay safe and healthy,” wrote Henderson in his letter to families.
