Regional School Unit No. 56
147 Weld Street, Dixfield, Maine 04224
Phone: (207)562-4300 - Fax: (207)562-6075
Pam Doyen, Superintendent of Schools
April 9, 2021
Dear Staff, Students, and Families,
This letter is to inform you that a confirmed case of COVID-19, associated with Dirigo High School, has been reported. All close contacts have been notified. Due to the large number of staff identified as close contacts, we will not be able to provide in-person learning next week. We will be providing remote learning. Extra and co-curricular activities will occur as scheduled. All Dirigo High School students will be receiving remote instruction starting Monday, April 12, 2021. Unless otherwise advised, in-person learning at DHS will resume after April break on April 26, 2021. TWK Dirigo Middle School and Dirigo Elementary will continue to provide in-person learning next week.
Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a healthcare facility before you show up in person. Stay home if you are sick.
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include:
COVID Symptoms
Less Common Most Common
Headache Cough
Runny nose/congestion Shortness of breath
Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea New loss of taste or smell
Muscle pain Fever (100.4 degrees or higher)
Fatigue Sore Throat
Chills
Due to the timing of this positive COVID result, there were no close contacts identified at Dirigo High School.
Maine CDC recommends prevention measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Questions for the district can be directed to Pam Doyen by calling 207 562-4251. For general COVID-19 questions, dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695). You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email info@211maine.org. Call a health care provider for questions about your symptoms. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.
Sincerely,
Pam Doyen, Superintendent