Islip Teacher Tests Positive For Coronavirus; District Will Open

ISLIP, NY— As teachers return to Long Island school districts to prepare for school re-openings, a few staff members are testing positive for coronavirus. An Islip High School teacher tested positive for COVID-19, according to the district, triggering the health response plan put in place earlier. The scheduled opening date of the school year of September 9 has not been affected and will remain as planned.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Semel sent a letter informing the school community of the development this week and one Islip parent feels the clear communication from the district is crucial as the school year gears up. Jessica Goldschmidt Bogulubsky is sending her six-year-old-daughter back to school and feels confident in the district's ability to manage the situation.

"I feel that the school did a great job informing the district. It seems that they are taking the appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of the students. I still feel safe sending my daughter."

Merrick and Smithtown are the other two Long Island districts reporting the first positive staff COVID-19 cases as the school year gets started.

Do reports of staff COVID-19 cases at your district or neighboring districts concern you? How secure do you feel sending your children to school next week? Tell us in the comments.