CHESAPEAKE, Va. - Parent pick-up and drop-off is slower than usual at StoneBridge School.
"We learned over the Labor Day weekend that two individuals had tested positive in our school,” said the head of the school, Kathy Rader.
Fast forward to a week later, that number has more than tripled.
"I do have a couple of teachers who tested positive, but a majority are students,” Rader adds.
Students returned to school from the summer break on August 27.
Leaders are reporting more than 10 positive coronavirus cases, forcing them to shut down the Upper School so teachers and students from 6th to 12th grade can quarantine.
That's more than 200 people. The total enrollment at the school is 390.
Rader says, "I'm so happy to say that so far all of the cases have been mild."
Unlike the Upper School, students from preschool to 5th grade aren’t required to wear a mask. Rader says students are screened daily.
"Each teacher is checking temperatures; we have scanners, and we are checking temps every morning."
The school tell News 3 the Upper School will remain closed until next week. Leaders hope that other schools in the area can learn from their situation.
"My advice to other school leaders would be just be prepared mentally for having cases. Be proactive as much as possible with limiting the mixing of students and try to keep students separate,” Rader adds.
She says parents can also help schools prevent a future outbreak.
"We are asking parents to really be mindful about monitoring symptoms,” said Rader.
The local health department is aware of the recent outbreak. Rader says health leaders advice increased cleaning and sanitizing in bathrooms.
"With prayer and a lot of hope, we can manage to stay well and limit the spread of the virus until we have a vaccine," Rader adds.
