Two Nome schools to open mostly online Tuesday after student tests positive for coronavirus

This article originally appeared at KNOM.org and is republished here with permission.

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NOME -- Nome public schools will be opening mostly online in the “red phase” after a student-athlete tested positive for COVID-19 last week in connection with a recent Nome-based cluster of cases.

That means that when school opens Tuesday, students will not be going to class at Nome-Beltz High School or Anvil City Science Academy buildings as originally planned. Instead, classes will be held in a fully distance-learning manner.

NPS did not identify which sports team the athlete is part of. School and public health officials are not confirming whether the entire team has been tested or quarantined at this time.

Norton Sound Health Corp. officials encouraged anyone who suspects they may be a contact of any positive COVID-19 case to go in for testing. Spokesperson Reba Lean implored the community to be compassionate with any individuals who have the virus.

Nome Public Schools said all school sports practices are suspended until further notice. Volleyball and cross-country had already begun practicing earlier in summer. The cross-country team held their first race, the Musk-Ox Ramble, last weekend.

Nome Elementary School reopening plans are so far unaffected by this newest case; those students were not scheduled to start in-person classes until at least Aug. 31. However, the school district says, “all children grades K-5 will be required to wear a face covering at school. Face coverings (masks or face shields) will be provided for any student who needs one; face coverings are on the school supply list.”

Parents of elementary students are being asked to contact their students’ teachers to attend individual meetings.