County confirms first district case

Dear Families:

We wanted to let you know that the Albany County Health Department has notified us that we have a confirmed case of COVID-19 involving one of our schools.  A member of the Pine Hills Elementary School community has tested positive. This is the first confirmed case of COVID-19 that health officials have notified us about involving the City School District of Albany. 

The district remains in communication with local health department officials for guidance. The health department will be in contact with families, employees and others who may have been affected by the Pine Hills Elementary case. All classes have been cancelled at Pine Hills Elementary and throughout the district since Monday due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19. We will continue to provide updates as developments occur.

Please continue to follow our COVID-19 Information section.

While classes are cancelled, we also would like to continue to remind all families to follow standard preventive practices for good hygiene to help slow the spread of germs. 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – that’s the same as singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice in a row. It’s especially important to wash before eating. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available. 
• COVID-19 symptoms are similar to the flu – fever, respiratory illness, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache and feeling very tired. Some people may also have nausea or vomiting. If you or a family member show any of these symptoms, particularly symptoms of a respiratory illness, talk with your health-care provider. 
• If your child has chronic health problems and displays flu-like symptoms, contact your health-care provider immediately.
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow or arm – instead of your hand. Remember to throw a tissue in the trash after you use it. 
• Don’t share things like drinks, food, eating utensils like forks and spoons, and toothbrushes. 
• Try to avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth. That’s how germs spread. 

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work together to respond to this serious matter. Please contact my office at (518) 475-6010 if you have any questions. 

Yours in education,

Kaweeda G. Adams
Superintendent