Governor Hutchinson Announces Changes to Probable Close Contact Quarantine Criteria
October 20, 2021
In Governor Hutchinson's latest press conference on Tuesday, October 19th regarding COVID-19, he announced protocol changes for K-12 schools.
The definition of a close contact in a school setting has changed from within 6 feet for 15 minutes to within 3 feet for 15 minutes. This modification will allow more students to remain in school.
Dr. Thurman, along with other district administrators, have requested the Governor for flexibility to allow more students to stay in school rather than being quarantined for up to two weeks.
Photo Courtesy: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette/Thomas Metthe
Representative Brian Evans of Cabot was key in organizing a meeting for Dr. Thurman and other superintendents, to speak with Governor Hutchinson and Dr. Jose Romero, Director of the Arkansas Department of Health, in order to share their concerns with the close contact criteria.
As predicted, schools saw evidence of learning loss throughout the state during the 2020-2021 school year. Those challenges have certainly carried over to the current school year.
Dr. Thurman was invited to join the Governor at the October 19th press conference. Dr. Thurman stated he is grateful for the flexibility and that school districts will continue to promote social distancing, increased sanitation efforts, frequent handwashing, daily health checks before arriving at school, and opportunities to receive vaccinations.
Should there be a substantial increase in positivity rates, Dr. Jose Romero stated that quarantine directives could be returned back to 6 feet.
On behalf of the Cabot School District, Dr. Thurman and his fellow administrators would like to thank Governor Hutchinson and Dr. Romero for this consideration in modifying the quarantine protocols. The district will remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19 and will work hard to continue keeping our students safe, healthy, and in school.