The Decorah Community School District is committed to providing transparent, accurate data regarding cases of isolation and/or quarantining related to COVID-19. They are also committed to maintaining the confidentiality of students and staff. Last Friday, September 18, the Iowa Department of Public Health and Iowa Department of Education released new guidance to school districts and local public health agencies detailing communication of COVID-19 related data. This new guidance has caused changes to the formatting of how they will share data beginning today.

You can read the Iowa Department of Public Health guidance here.

Summary Positive COVID-19 Data Year-to-Date

• Approximately 290 Staff – Less than six (6) positive COVID-19 – All recovered
• Approximately 1575 On-site students – Less than six (6) positive COVID-19 – Less than six (6) recovered 

Mark Lane, superintendent, noted, “Our families and staff have done an excellent job monitoring personal health and staying home when sick. Julie Goedken, one of our school nurses, shared with the board earlier this week that she has noticed increased diligence to keeping students home when they are experiencing symptoms like running a fever, having a sore throat, running nose, or a cough. We know that in the past these might be symptoms that cause people to simply take some Advil and head to school. We are grateful that people recognize times are different.”

The District has created has created a guide to help students monitor daily health and make decisions about staying home if needed:

DCSD Health Guidelines – When to Stay Home

Lane added, “I appreciate the work people have done to create opportunities to celebrate Homecoming in a safe manner. I encourage everyone to embrace their personal responsibility for supporting our shared safety and health. I know these sacrifices are difficult. Thank you to everyone who is working each day to provide learning and extracurricular opportunities for our students. We continue to be stronger together.”