Two additional Long Beach school staffers test positive for coronavirus

Two additional Long Beach school staff members have tested positive for the coronavirus, Long Beach schools Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Gallager announced Sunday night.

In a statement to families, Gallagher said a custodian who worked in all school buildings tested positive. The second staff member solely works at the high school. Gallagher added that other staffers and parents had notified her that they have symptoms associated with the virus and are undergoing testing.

As of March 22, this brings the total to three staff members testing positive for the coronavirus and 15 individuals overall on the barrier island, according to Nassau County Health.

Once again, Gallagher urged families to maintain social distancing.

“At this point, I would again urge you to continue social distancing and hygiene measures, and contact your physician if you or family members show symptoms of the virus,” Gallagher said. “ And please please take seriously the cautions of our public health officials. The only way to mitigate spread is to stay home and limit contacts.”

Additionally, Gallagher addressed a measure Gov. Andrew Cuomo put in place to provide emergency child care to first responders and healthcare professionals. The district is working with SCOPE Education Services, which offers before and after school programs for schools, to help facilitate emergency child care for first responders and health care professionals, while the schools remain closed. Gallagher said she would release more information and directions.

For more information on SCOPE and districts that already offer emergency child care, visit www.scopeonline.us.