Young County schools report COVID-19 cases

Cases of COVID-19 have hit two school districts in Young County this week. Both Graham ISD and Olney ISD sent releases to parents with notifications of positive COVID-19 cases within their districts. Olney’s release was sent on Sept. 14. Graham ISD Superintendent Sonny Cruse notified the district via ParentSquare the following day.

In a letter to the district parents, Olney Superintendent Dr. Greg Roach said there was a lab-confirmed case present at Olney Elementary on Friday, Sept. 11. Due to privacy requirements, the district did not release the name of the individual or any details that could assist in identifying the patent. Those who were in close contact with the patient have been notified and will remain off campus for up to 14 days to ensure they have not received the virus.

“While we do not have reason to believe that those who were not in close contact with the infected individual have reason to be concerned,” Roach said. “We ask that everyone, as always, watch for symptoms of COVID-19.”

Cruse sent a ParentSquare message to the Graham community at 7 p.m. Tuesday. One staff member at both Graham High School and Pioneer Elementary have each tested positive for COVID-19.

“Due to both staff members wearing masks, we have avoiding having to quarantine large numbers of staff and students,” Cruse said in the release. “I encourage all to be even more diligent regarding wearing PPE’s and following hand sanitizing procedures.”

For the rest of the story, see the Sept. 19 edition of The Graham Leader.