October 15, 2021
Dear Smithfield Staff and Families,
This 9th edition of the Back to School report includes our weekly report on COVID cases, consent forms for testing, flu season, positive case notification, and town data.
A Weekly Report on COVID Cases
Another 7 cases were confirmed since the last Back to School Report for a total of 73 cases since the start of the school year. This week’s cases included 3 SHS students, 1 GMS student, 1 GMS staff, 1 Pleasant View Elementary School student, and 1 Pleasant View Elementary School staff. There were no reported cases at OCRS or LaPerche.
Consent Forms for Testing
Consent forms for testing were distributed by email and are also available on our COVID page. Any families that would like their children tested twice monthly should fill out a consent form and return the form to their school. Unvaccinated athletes MUST be tested weekly.
Flu Season
The same precautions that protect us against COVID-19 also protect us against the flu. Last year’s flu season was mild due to the fact that people wore masks, washed their hands, and were socially distanced. In addition to these measures, the flu vaccine, which can be obtained from a local pharmacy, reduces the risk of getting the flu. We are holding a flu clinic for families and children (ages 3 and older) on November 3rd, from 4-7pm in the cafeteria at OCRS.
Positive Case Notification
We ask for your help in keeping our greater school community safe. If anyone in your household tests positive for Covid, please let your school nurse know. Contact tracing is most effective in reducing viral spread when it is done quickly. Waiting for RIDOH notification can often use valuable time that is better spent letting those around you know that they may have been exposed. Your help with this is greatly appreciated.
Town Data
While we saw a continued drop in RI’s numbers last week, Smithfield maintained levels that continue to be classified as high transmission. Last week, we reported the number of new COVID cases in Smithfield to be 58. This was later adjusted to be 60. This week’s figure is 57. The town rate corresponds to a weekly rate of 259 new cases per 100,000 residents. This data is available at https://bit.ly/2PxCgDM.
Sincerely,
Judy Paolucci, Superintendent