At least 27 COVID-19 cases confirmed in Fletcher High School community

A day after Duval County Public Schools announced the closure of Fletcher High School due to ‘multiple’ coronavirus cases, we’re getting new details on what led to that decision.

According to Superintendent Dr. Diana Greene, there are now at least 27 confirmed cases within the school community.

“I want to be clear, the situation at Fletcher does not appear to be connected to the school, but rather to a social gathering that occurred outside of the school,” says Greene.

Greene is urging students to practice healthy behaviors in and out of school.

“I would be remiss if we didn’t reflect on this situation and demonstrate what happens when a community of students lets its guard down just for an evening. Parents, families, students, help us all, help you. I want nothing more than to keep schools open and to be as normal as possible with instruction,” says Greene.

The Florida Department of Health says it is working closely with DCPS and has been reaching out to students and families as part of contact tracing. If you get one of these calls, they are asking you to be cooperative and truthful. A spokesperson says the 27 cases appear to be related to a party, as well as smaller gatherings at individual homes. In addition, she says there has been transmission within households.

If you think you have been in contact with a positive COVID-19 individual, you can call the Florida Department of Health at (904) 253-1850.

As of now, the plan is to keep the Fletcher High School campus closed through Monday, with classes moved to virtual instruction.

Cox Media Group