Coronavirus: High School To Reopen; Events At All Schools Axed

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Following an "enhanced cleaning," Lowell High School in San Francisco will reopen on Wednesday. It has been closed since last Thursday when San Francisco Unified School District found out that the a parent of a Lowell student was hospitalized for the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

“The decision to dismiss Lowell early on Thursday, March 5 and remain closed through Tuesday, March 10 was made in an abundance of caution while we continued to gather information. We know this was a conservative decision and we appreciate the patience and understanding of the Lowell community through this disruption,” said Superintendent Vincent Matthews. “We recognize how challenging this situation is for our families, students, and staff and take this situation very seriously. We are taking preventative measures in response to new information every day.”

The district is working with the Department of Public Health (SFDPH) to develop plans for the best way to address coronavirus and reduce transmission.

“We know COVID-19 is in our community and with increased testing there will likely be more cases identified daily. We plan to announce more details about the district's plans before the end of the week,” said Superintendent Matthews.

At the direction of the city, all non-essential events at all SFUSD schools are cancelled effective March 9 until March 22. Cancelling non-essential events allows SFUSD to limit contact while also maintaining a school-based learning environment, which aligns with SFDPH’s recommendation to keep schools open at this time.

If there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 at a school, the Health Department will work with the school and the district to determine the best measures including potential school closure.

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