In a letter posted for families with students at Gulf Islands Secondary School (GISS) late this afternoon, school administrators have confirmed that Island Health contact tracing and communication in regard to the confirmed case of COVID-19 reported yesterday of a GISS community member has been completed.

"We are pleased to share that Island Health actions (contact tracing and communication) in response to the confirmed case of COVID-19 have been completed. Island Health has identified and notified all close-contacts and has provided them with specific guidance regarding a self-isolation period."

"We wanted to share with everyone a common misconception in regard to viral transmission; that it is tied to a place, rather than to an individual. This exposure is not connected to the school itself, as our building and classrooms are regularly cleaned and disinfected. Our school continues to implement the strict protocols and procedures set by the Provincial Health Officer, WorkSafe BC and BC Centre for Disease Control so that our students and staff can continue to attend school as safely as possible."

The administration goes on to say that they "recognize all of our staff and students who are making a huge sacrifice by self-isolating to protect their own health and the health of our community. We want to encourage them that they are doing the right thing by following the instructions of Island Health, and that we will communicate and provide supports to ensure that a continuity of learning or working occurs. "

They are also reminding everyone in the GISS community to ensure that they all continue to follow the protocols and practices in place to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19:

• Daily health checks prior to leaving home for school, and staying home when sick.
• Physical distancing when outside of Learning Groups.
• Masks required in all high traffic areas, on buses /water taxis, and when outside Learning Groups and physical distancing cannot be maintained.
• Hand washing/sanitizing; keep hands away from face.
• Respiratory etiquette - sneeze/cough into elbow.The administration of the school has reassured the community that the health and safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our primary focus at GISS.