An individual at the Illini Central Pre-Kindergarten school has tested positive or is presumed positive for COVID-19. We have coordinated our efforts with the Mason County Health Department 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. This positive case did not increase the number of students and staff at the Pre-K building who are considered to be in close contact. However, it does alter the quarantine period for some of the individuals. As a result, the Pre-Kindergarten program will remain closed through October 12. Students will return to class on Tuesday, October 13, 2020.
To prevent further spread of the disease, Illini Central is taking the following steps:
Placing staff members and students who are identified as having prolonged close contact to the COVID-19 case(s) in quarantine for 14 days. Close contacts will also receive a separate notification from the Mason County Health Department.
Ongoing monitoring of students and staff for signs and symptoms of illness and evaluation of illness reports to promptly identify possible outbreaks.
Conducting a deep clean and disinfection of the areas impacted by potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
It is important to remember that the number of staff and students who are quarantined has not increased. Only the timeline for return has changed. With this information and the fact that the students were to return just one day before an extended weekend on October 8th, we have deemed it advisable to delay the reopening.
Please know this closure is in effect only for the Pre-K building as the case is isolated to that location. Illini Central students in grades K-12 will continue with in-person instruction.
As always, everyone should monitor their health and stay at home if they develop symptoms1. Sick persons should contact their health care provider to determine if testing is needed. Anyone who develops severe symptoms2 should seek medical care immediately. If your child has had close contact with a known case of COVID-19, keep the child at home and notify your primary healthcare provider, Illini Central schools, and your local health department.
We are committed to providing your child and our staff with a safe and healthy environment. Thank you for your understanding and ongoing cooperation with our COVID prevention policies and procedures as we work to help protect your children, your families, and our staff and their families. For any questions or concerns, please contact us at 217-482-5180.