Sedona Red Rock High School has now reported five COVID-19 cases since Oct. 23, with the last two reported on Thursday, Nov. 19 and Friday, Nov. 20. One staff member and four students have reported positive test results so far, and those infected or possibly infected have quarantined and worked from home.

The first four notifications to families at the school, penned by Sedona-Oak Creek School District Superintendent Deana DeWitt, have been similar in nature, informing of when the infected individual was last on campus and the protocols at the school. The letter on Nov. 20 was written by SOCSD Superintendent and SRRHS Principal Dennis Dearden, and urges families to be cautious in the coming days.

“We are fortunate to have relatively few cases given the increasing rates in the community,” Dearden wrote. “At least so far, it appears that the positive cases we have documented are likely from household spread, with an adult or other family member first testing positive. At least so far, there does not appear to be campus-based student to student spread.  I am hoping this stays true, and I am hoping our virtual days after Thanksgiving Break will help keep risk at a minimum.

“However, we need the committed partnership of every SOCUSD family in order to keep students from spreading virus to one another. It is imperative that we all strictly adhere to the recommended guidelines of physical distancing, wearing masks, hand washing, and avoiding social contact outside of household groups – both on campus and outside of school.  As we head into this weekend, and as we approach the holidays, please be mindful in practicing COVID precautions.  It is especially important that students do not gather in social groups outside of school, particularly if they are not strictly adhering to masking and distancing rules, and then return to the school setting. 

“It’s going to take teamwork to keep your schools healthy, safe, and open.  As with the earlier cases, Ms. DeWitt is working closely with the Yavapai County Community Health Services Department.  She and Mrs. Ortega have been personally notifying close contacts who may have been exposed with quarantine instructions.  Those recommended for quarantine must remain isolated at home as well as staying home from school.”  

Dearden authorized a Thanksgiving party for the special education department and their families that took place in SRRHS classroom on Nov. 20, in which food was made and shared with that community as well as other administrators and teachers that came by.