Staff and Parents,

Updated COVID Activity Level

The NJ Department of Health has updated the state’s CALI score. Most New Jersey counties decreased to orange “high” from red “very high.” Details can be found here: COVID-19 Activity Report Week 3 (MMWR week ending January 22, 2022). This score indicates that the Essex County COVID activity level has decreased enough that the weekly testing for winter athletes and extracurricular activities is now optional for students. 

Optional Testing For All Students

As a reminder, to sign your student(s) up for the Monday optional testing, complete the Google form below. If you have already signed up, we ask you to re-enroll your student to avoid delays. https://forms.gle/DbPZ44CVGmctFEJA6 

Quarantine for COVID Positive Individuals

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 or persons with COVID-19 symptoms, who weren’t tested or who are waiting for test results, should stay home and isolate themselves from other people for at least five full days (day 0 is the first day of symptoms or date of positive test). If symptoms resolve (fever-free for 24 hours and other symptoms improve ), individuals can return to school after five full days (i.e., on day six). Please remember if you are completing a five-day quarantine, you must vigorously mask for another five days. 

Updated Quarantine Guidance for Close Contacts 

Beginning on February 1, the district will follow the updated guidance from the NJDOH regarding quarantining close contact individuals.  All individuals 12 years and older who have completed a primary series of COVID-19 vaccine but have NOT received a recommended booster shot when eligible, as well as unvaccinated individuals, WILL need to quarantine for at least five full days and take additional precautions if they have been in close contact with an individual with COVID-19. For your information we have attached the following chart from the NJDOH.

Most importantly, if you feel sick or have COVID symptoms, please stay home. 

Thank you.