Jan. 4 Update: 18 new confirmed COVID-19 cases reported

We have learned of 18 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our school community since our update yesterday, Monday, Jan. 3.

  • 10 positive cases reported at Watervliet Jr-Sr. High School
  • 8 positive cases reported at Watervliet Elementary School

All contract tracing was completed as per Albany County Department of Health protocols, and all individuals identified as having potential exposure have been notified and advised of the need to quarantine as a precaution.

COVID Test Kits Available for Pick Up

A reminder that at-home COVID-19 test kits are available for families to pick up at both school buildings between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. through Friday, Jan. 7. Test kits are also available for pick up from 5-7 p.m. TODAY – Tuesday, Jan. 4 – at Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School. One at-home test kit is available per student.

Please note that any positive test results from an at-home test must be reported to the local health department and to your school nurse (at the phone numbers listed below). To report a positive test result to Albany County, visit https://forms.albanycounty.com/Forms/dcu8G and follow the directions provided.

  • Watervliet Elementary School nurse: Sue Vogel, 518-629-3402
  • Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School nurse: Rachel Thomas, 518-629-3304

Vaccinations available

In addition to wearing masks and social distancing, vaccination continues to be one of the most effective mitigation measures we have to keep our schools open safely for in-person learning. We encourage eligible students and staff members to get fully vaccinated (and a booster, if eligible) to protect themselves, their families and their communities. COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available for students who are 5 years and older through our Whitney Young School-Based Health Clinic at WJSHS. Call 518-629-3270 to make an appointment.

Your cooperation and support of our schools is appreciated as we continue to work together to make this a safe, healthy and successful school year for our students, staff and families. Thank you.

(This message was shared with WCSD families and staff via One Call Now email on Tuesday, Jan. 4.)