Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools and school administration at Ibraham Elementary have been informed of self-reported cases of COVID-19 and self-reported cases of individuals in preventative quarantine all associated with the school. As of Wednesday morning, Ibraham had been alerted that more than 30 staff members were in quarantine.  Because of the large number of absences, the school will move to remote learning on Monday, Nov. 30 and the building will be closed to all students and staff until December 7.

 “This situation is somewhat unique as it does not appear the vast majority of the cases are connected,” said Tricia McManus, WS/FCS Interim Superintendent.  “Community spread is playing a large role in what’s impacting this school. Many staff members report being exposed to someone positive within their daily lives. They are now doing what they need to do to keep themselves and others safe and following quarantine guidelines which means they aren’t coming to school,” she said.

With the large number of expected absences among staff when school begins again next week, WS/FCS feels it best to close the school so quarantined staff who are asymptomatic and able can continue teaching remotely.  It will also allow Pre-K, kindergarten and first grade students who have resumed in-person learning, the ability to maintain instruction by working with their regular teachers remotely, instead of with a substitute at school.   

“A large number of substitutes at school is not what’s best for students.  By having the remote learning days and a holiday break this week, and then moving instruction on-line next week, we have the opportunity for folks to safely finish quarantine.  Hopefully, this way we can protect staff and students, help them all safely navigate this virus but still provide students with much needed instruction, remotely,” said Angie Choplin, Ibraham Principal.

School officials are working closely with the local health department.  They will continue to monitor to determine if any of the cases will eventually constitute an official cluster. WS/FCS continues to await further guidance from local health officials. 

Our top priority is for the health and safety of each student and staff member. WS/FCS will move forward with efforts to ensure proper cleaning takes place and contact tracing continues to identify any potential exposures. The process to disinfect and sanitize the school is underway.