School closes for the week with around 150 students and multiple staff members sick
By KMBC Staff
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OLATHE, Kansas (KMBC) — Olathe School District officials have closed an elementary school in Olathe with an “exceedingly high” number of sick students and staff members.
The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment has recommended Clearwater Creek Elementary close immediately for the rest of the week and reopen on Monday, Oct. 31.
In a letter to parents, the school said more than 150 students and staff are out sick. Roughly 25 percent of the school was absent Wednesday.
The school says officials at the health department believe the illnesses are due to a currently unknown virus.
The district said it has ruled out environmental factors.
“As is typical practice, the health department monitors school illness data every year, and recommends building closures when absentee rates exceed 10 percent. We currently have more than 150 students and multiple staff members out, with several additional students being sent home,” Principal Nate Kremer said in a letter to parents.
Parents were asked to contact their pediatrician or the Johnson County Department of Health if they have concerns about their child’s health.
The health department can also provide resources and testing for families interested in learning more about the specific cause of illness.
The district says it is working to disinfect the entire building and increase HVAC airflow to the building. The school called the closure a safety measure to protect students, staff and the community while the building undergoes extensive cleaning.
This story will be update as more information is made available.
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