Dear Families,
The Livingston County Health Department has notified the district that it has determined that two cases of COVID-19 in the Howell High School swim and dive program appear to be linked. Howell High School communicated about the initial case within the swim and drive program on October 1. During the time that all individuals identified as close contacts of the student who tested positive were in quarantine, a second student tested positive. Since these two cases are linked by time and place, this fits the criteria to be considered an outbreak and Howell High School will appear on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) School Outbreak list this week.
We have consulted with the Livingston County Health Department and at this time, they are comfortable with us continuing in-person learning, as they believe that contract tracing, quarantine efforts, and mitigation strategies have worked correctly and that the risk for further transmission linked to these cases is very low. We will continue to work in partnership with the Livingston County Health Department and follow their advice and guidance to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
As always, we must remain vigilant in following safety and good public health protocols. These include frequent handwashing, staying home when sick, and wearing a mask when in public spaces.
Sincerely,
Erin J. MacGregor, Ed.S.
Superintendent
Howell Public Schools