MIDLOTHIAN, Va. (WRIC) – A student at Midlothian High School has tested positive for coronavirus, according to Chesterfield County Public Schools’ website. The case was reported today on the county’s website.
Chesterfield County middle and high school students returned to in-person learning this week – the fourth cohort to return as part of the county’s Project Restart plan.
Teachers shared their frustrations about the county’s plan to return more students to the classroom yesterday at the county’s school board meeting. Teacher Todd Gasprello was among those who voiced concerns, saying that the school board went against their own health metrics instead of prioritizing the health and safety of students, faculty and staff.
“In no rational world, do you have a split decision from a health committee, claim you prioritize health, and then chose the riskier option that goes against VDH’s guidance,” Gasparello said at the meeting. “The hypocrisy is real and you all are okay with that.”
According to the Virginia Department of Health, within the last 14 days, Chesterfield County as a whole, has had more than 211 cases per 100,000 people.
Chesterfield County staff member James Freeman calls the school board’s actions, ‘negligent.’
“By failing to pause cohort four amid worsening conditions in our county, this board is not only risking the lives and health of students staff and families, they are disregarding the well being of every person in this county,” said Freeman.
The county has reported 81 cases of coronavirus amongst teachers, students and staff since teachers returned to their classrooms on August 31. Those reported cases include at least 22 students.
This is a breaking news update. Stay with 8News as we continue to report on this developing story.
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