A Texas School District Is Heartbroken After Losing Two Teachers To COVID-19
Toni Gee Published: August 31, 2021
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A Central Texas school district is temporarily closing their doors while they recover from the devastating effects of COVID-19.
According to a report from our news partners at KWTX, Connally ISD announced the passing of a second teacher this school year, who died from complications of the coronavirus.
The school district sent a message to parents on August 30 announcing the closure of all school campuses in the Connally school district.
"This closure is an effort to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and is in line with recommendations from the McLennan County Health Department," Superintendent Wesley Holt said in a message to parents.
"Our hope is that the closure and holiday break will provide those who are positive with the virus or exposed to others with the virus, the time to isolate and recover," he said in the message.
The first teacher lost this school year from COVID-19 was seventh grade social studies teacher David "Andy" McCormick, 49, who died on August 24.
The most recent teacher passing is that of Natalia Chansler, 41, who taught sixth grade social studies at Connally Junior High School.
"With the loss of two beloved teachers, we know that concerns for physical and mental health are heightened. We want to assure you that we are focused on measures to take care of our students and staff," Holt said.
Connally ISD released a statement to all parents and guardians reading, "We know the hardship this may present to families, but we want to do everything we can to ensure the health and safety of our students and team. Please continue to monitor for symptoms and if your child tests positive for Covid-19, contact your students' campus nurse."
Connally Early Childhood Center- Chris Ruhter, cruhter@connally.org
Connally Primary School- Cheryl Sanchez, clsanchez@connally.org
Connally Elementary School- Pam White, pwhite@connally.org
Connally Junior high- Lisa Watts, lwatts@connally.org
Connally High School- Elizabeth Sharp, esharp@connally.org
Staff at Connally Junior High were offered rapid COVID-19 testing, and the district is working to provide rapid testing to students and parents as well. The district is also hosting a vaccination clinic from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sept. 13 in the Connally High School gym.
During the closure students will be taught via remote learning. Further instructions will be communicated by the student's school principal.
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Filed Under: Coronavirus, Local News