November 21, 2020
To our Father Mercredi Community High School families,
Alberta Health Services is working closely with Fort McMurray Catholic Schools to support and manage the safety of our schools. This morning Fort McMurray Catholic School Division received notice of two additional positive cases of COVID-19 in relation to Father Mercredi Community High School. These cases are not the result of in school transmission. Father Mercredi High School will remain open.
Parents/guardians of students who AHS deem to be close contacts, and are required to self isolate, will receive contact from Alberta Health Services shortly with additional information. Father Mercredi Community High School has already reached out to these families. Virtual learning for those affected will be available for the continuation of student learning. Students will be contacted by their teacher for further information.
As you are aware, on November 11th, Fort McMurray Catholic School Division received notice there is an “outbreak” at Father Mercredi Community High School. Please see this letter from Alberta Health Services for more information.
The Alberta Government defines an outbreak as: If there are TWO OR MORE confirmed cases in your school setting (staff/child) within a 14-day period (one incubation period) OR two or more confirmed cases (staff/child) that are epidemiologically linked.
As we shared previously, we continue our focus on preventing the spread of COVID-19. Our custodial services team is conducting enhanced cleaning protocols. Additional cleaning is focusing on areas where the individual was present, along with high-touch areas and surfaces throughout the school.
Out of respect to these individuals and in accordance with Alberta Health Services guidelines, we cannot disclose personal details of the individuals that have tested positive for COVID-19.
We remind families to monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 using the Alberta Health Screening Questionnaire. Please remember to complete the checklist each day prior to attending school. If you or a member of your family has any of the symptoms of illness listed, please fill out the online Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment or call Health Link at 811.
The health and safety of our staff, students and community is paramount. We know this news can be distressing for families and supports are available. Please be assured we will continue to work closely with Alberta Health Services to ensure we follow their ongoing recommendations.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Lisa Miller, Father Mercredi Community High School Principal
George McGuigan, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools Superintendent