DCPS changes quarantine policy for elementary schools

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — If an elementary student at a Duval County Public School tests positive for COVID-19, the entire class will no longer need to shift to online learning.

That was the previous protocol when two or more cases of COVID-19 were reported in elementary classes in a seven day period.

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The announcement was made Monday following “declining numbers of COVID-19 cases in Duval County Public Schools combined with new quarantine direction from the Florida Department of Health.”

DCPS said the Department of Health will continue to perform contact tracing and case investigations for all reported COVID-19 cases impacting schools.

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If a student has been identified by health leaders as being in close contact with someone with COVID-19, the student will only need to quarantine if they are showing symptoms of the virus. Students who are close contact, but show no symptoms, may attend school or quarantine if the parent wishes.

The protocol for wearing masks remains unchanged. Students are still required to wear a mask unless they have completed the medical opt-out form.

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