19 Students Absent With Positive COVID-19 Diagnoses

VESTAVIA HILLS, AL — A slight increase in positive COVID-19 tests among students was reported by Vestavia Hills City School for the week ending Oct. 8. Superintendent Todd Freeman said 19 students were absent from positive diagnoses, 16 of which were new diagnoses.

This number was an increase from the 15 positive tests from the week prior. As well, Freeman said 25 students were absent during the week for close contact.

"The primary goal for our school system is to have students engaged in learning experiences in a safe and nurturing environment," Freeman said. "The most important part of our health and wellness plan is for staff and students to stay at home when they are sick."

Freeman said the interest survey for voluntary COVID-19 testing and vaccination was closed last week, and responses indicate that 5 percent of students would be interested in participating in weekly voluntary testing and 7 percent would be interested in a vaccine clinic.

"We will continue working with UAB to determine the feasibility for voluntary COVID testing and will update you as soon as possible," Freeman said.