Tappan Zee High School Staffer Self-Quarantined

ORANGETOWN, NY — Tappan Zee High School has been deep-cleaned since a staffer there went into voluntary quarantine over the new coronavirus. The staffer's children attend a school in Westchester County that has been closed due to three confirmed cases.

South Orangetown district officials were told Wednesday night by the staffer and notified by Rockland County health officials, Superintendent Robert R. Pritchard told the community in a message on the district website.

Neither the staff member nor the children have symptoms of what is known officially as COVID-19.

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"The DOH believes that the risk to our students and staff is minimal and advised that Tappan Zee High School operate as usual," Pritchard said. "Beyond the enhanced cleaning measures instituted, the District has taken further precautionary measures, including deep cleaning and sanitizing rooms in which the staff member has been present, as well as bathrooms, offices, and common areas. Our nurses and building administrators will continue to monitor student and staff attendance and will be on the lookout for any symptomatic indications."

Over the last several weeks, district officials have been reviewing protocols and procedures should it become necessary to cancel after school activities or close schools, and now are monitoring this situation as it evolves, he said. At this time, all activities will proceed as scheduled.

"In the meantime, if you or a member of your family is asked to self-quarantine by an employer or organization with which you are associated, please notify the district immediately. Families should call their children’s school nurse; staff should contact Director of Staff Relations Dr. Joseph Lloyd," he said.