More COVID-19 cases linked to schools in Hamilton, Brantford and Niagara

Two more COVID-19 cases have been linked to Hamilton schools — including the first case at a public high school in the city.

New cases have also appeared at schools in Niagara and Brantford.

Among the new cases for Hamilton is student from Sherwood Secondary School, who was last in the building on Sept. 25.

Public health officials contacted the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) about the test result on Oct. 2, according to a letter from principal Michelle Visca.

"As a precautionary measure, the cohort of students associated with this case have received instruction from HPHS to not attend school and isolate for a 14-day period," it reads.

It was not clear from the letter how many students were directed to stay home.

The letter also states it's "vital" the health information and identity of those involved not be released, pointing to a need to respect their privacy.

Public health has reached out to all staff and students, including those in the same class cohort and study hall, as part of contact tracing, it reads.

Visca noted the HWDSB follows a "detailed cleaning and disinfecting protocol" following any confirmed case, adding students will only be allowed back when the board is "confident" it is safe.

Catholic board staff member tests positive

A letter from the principal of St. Mary Catholic Secondary School also confirmed a staff member, who isn't working in a classroom or directly with students, has tested positive for the virus.

Brian Daly said the staff member has not been in the school since Sept. 25.

"The health, safety and well-being of our students and staff is always a priority concern for our school and school board, but especially important as we return to classroom learning during the global pandemic," he wrote in a letter to families dated Oct. 2.

"We will continue to work closely with HPHS to ensure all health and safety measures are in place to prevent transmission to other student and individuals in the school community."

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Both principals asked parents and caregivers to continue to having children complete daily COVID-19 screening and attending school unless they're considered a close contact of the case, or have been directed to stay home by public health.

"Our shared priority is the health and safety of the children and staff in our school community," wrote Visca.

"Please know that we remain focused on the well-being of our school community and will update you throughout the process."

2 new cases for DSBN and BHNCDSB

Public health officials in Niagara announced Sunday that new cases had been reported at two area schools as well.

Individuals at Eden High School and Park Public School have tested positive.

The District School Board of Niagara's website says two classrooms have been closed, though the schools remain open.

"Following protocol, the schools have been thoroughly cleaned and [Niagara Region Public Health] will do a comprehensive on-site assessment at the schools," reads a post from the board on Twitter.

Two new cases have also been confirmed with the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board.

One of the cases is connected to St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School and the other is linked to Assumption College.

Neither school indicated whether the person who has tested positive was a student or staff member.

They did note that their schools remain open to anyone not asked by public health to self-isolate, adding custodians have already "disinfected impacted areas."

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