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FRANKLIN

A staff member of the Franklin City Public School Division has tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), according to FCPS Superintendent Dr. Tamara Sterling. She made the announcement to all city school employees and media on Tuesday afternoon.

The name of that person, who is in self-quarantine, is being withheld owing to federal health privacy laws.

“Please respect the staff member’s privacy during this difficult time,” Sterling said.

She added that the division is closed from Tuesday through Aug. 3, and that on returning to work, employees will be required to wear masks when entering any of the FCPS buildings, which includes the central office. Further, everyone is asked to continue maintaining social distancing practices.

“Upon learning the news, we contacted the Virginia Department of Health and have been working with them on next steps,” the superintendent said. “All employees directly impacted by this news have been contacted.”

Sterling reminded the division employees that the Centers for Disease Control recommends they contact their physicians if they think they’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and have developed a fever or and other symptoms, such as coughing or difficulty breathing. Visit www.vdh.virginia.gov for more information. In addition, she stressed to take the social distancing measures seriously by avoiding crowds, staying at home and maintaining at least six-feet distance from other people.

“We will continue to provide updates as needed,” wrote Sterling in her announcement. “Questions can be sent to HR or the Superintendent’s Office directly. Thank you for your support. By working together, we will get through these challenging times. As you know, the well-being of our students, employees and families is our number one priority.”

She said, “Please join me in sending healing thoughts to our staff member.”