Ringgold reports 2 cases of COVID-19

By KRISTIE LINDEN

klinden@yourmvi.com

One day after classes started in the Ringgold School District, the middle school had to send home a letter alerting parents that people were inside the building with COVID-19.

According to a letter sent to parents and guardians Tuesday, two people have tested positive for COVID and were inside the school while they were contagious.

In June, the school board decided not to require the wearing of masks when schools reopened.

The letter, written by middle school principals Tim McKay and James Klugh, said the information had been shared with the Washington County Health Department and contact tracing was conducted.

“At this time, all known close contacts have been notified of the need to quarantine in a separate correspondence,” the letter states. “In addition, we are taking all recommended steps to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.”

The letter doesn’t elaborate on the steps being taken.

Additional information regarding the positive cases, including whether they are students or staff, will not be shared to protect the privacy of all involved.

“Should you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, please contact your child’s health care provider,” the letter states. “Successfully managing the spread of COVID-19 requires all of us to work together for the health and safety of everyone.”

As of late Tuesday evening, the district’s website and Facebook page contained no information regarding the COVID cases or the district’s intended response to it.

Students and staff are not required to wear masks at the onset of the year, according to the district’s approved health and safety plan, though they may opt to wear them.

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