SENECA COUNTY, Ohio — Four staff members and two students at Hopewell-Loudon Local Schools in Seneca County have tested positive for COVID-19 since Friday.
Superintendent Jeffrey Holbrook issued an update to families on Monday, addressing the fourth confirmed case among staff reported.
In part, Monday's update read:
I want everyone to be aware that Hopewell‐Loudon WILL NOT start school this Wednesday as planned, since data is still coming in that will help our decision making. I will be making a recommendation to the Board of Education to push the start of school back until Wednesday, September 9, 2020. This information, as well as other information will be discussed in the Special Board meeting set for Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at 5:00 P.M.
The initial announcement of the first five cases came in a letter sent to parents from Superintendent Jeffrey Holbrook on Saturday.
The sixth case, a staff member, was announced on Monday - bringing the total to four staff members and two students.
The district says it immediately reached out to the Seneca County Health Department to institute contact tracing and reassured parents they are doing everything they can to ensure the safety and health of students, staff, and families.
Hopewell-Loudon schools were scheduled to start on Wednesday, August 26 with a staggered schedule.
An update will be provided following the results of Tuesday's board meeting.
