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COURTLAND

The Southampton County School Board Complex in Courtland closed earlier today, Nov. 17, when an employee working there informed officials that they had tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Southampton County Public Schools Health Plan’s measures were taken to ensure the safety of all, and contact tracing was conducted, according to information provided by Will Melbye, coordinator of Auxiliary and Transportation Services for Southampton County Public Schools. He stated that all actions were taken in accordance with the existing health plan for Southampton County Public Schools and existing guidance of the Franklin Health Department, the Western Tidewater Health Department, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“While adhering to the health plan procedures and guidelines, Southampton County Public Schools determined that the possible impact to employees was minimal and most contact was deemed incidental,” Melbye stated. “All necessary precautions were taken with all employees at the School Board Office complex to ensure the safety of everyone concerned. At this time, the infected person is doing well, and resting comfortably.

The board office will remain closed on Wednesday to complete deep cleaning and disinfecting. The site will reopen at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19.

Melbye continued, “Southampton County Public Schools, along with the Western Tidewater Health Department, continues to monitor this situation and community conditions regarding COVID-19. Southampton County Public Schools continues to stay vigilant in the fight against this virus, and encourages all individuals to wear a mask, maintain proper social distancing and wash their hands regularly.”