Mount Si High staff member tests positive for COVID-19

Symptoms appeared after school closure.

The Snoqualmie Valley School District announced March 18 that a Mount Si High School staff member has tested positive for COVID-19 (coronavirus).

The news release on the district’s website noted that the staff member, whose identity is not being shared due to privacy protection laws, displayed symptoms after the school closed on March 12. The person self-quarantined and later tested positive.

A written message from John Belcher, school principal, was included in the web post. It noted that school districts should no longer expect notice of individual case investigations from Public Health – Seattle & King County.

“We are providing this update as a courtesy and reminder to our school community to exercise safety and social distancing during this time. Due to the increased number of cases, Public Health has let school districts know we can no longer expect notifications about individual case investigations, and their response is focusing on community education and support. Through our partnership with Public Health, we will continue to provide up-to-date information about COVID-19 and refer people with health concerns to their health provider,” he wrote.

The release also reminded the community to watch for evolving Public Health recommendations to follow and encouraged those who are ill with coronavirus-like symptoms (such as fever, cough, respiratory problems) to stay home and contact their health care provider with any concerns.

The high school remains closed to the public.

The district did not immediately respond to request for comment.