Crook County schools expect to remain open as state looks at revising COVID-19 metrics

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Crook County schools should be able to stay open "into the foreseeable future," as the state looks to revise COVID-19 metrics to be "more flexible," Superintendent Dr. Sara Johnson told families Thursday.

Here's her full statement:

“Despite a rising COVID case count both locally and nationwide, Crook County schools will remain open next week and into the foreseeable future. In addition to the district’s current waiver request, changing metrics are expected to be announced soon from state officials and will allow our district’s schools to continue operating in the current models. 

“I am privileged to be a part of a statewide leadership team helping design a more flexible way of looking at COVID metrics and implications for school operations. Although the final methodology is still in development, I can confidently say, that based on what we know now, I don't see a school closure in our near future.

“Flexibility shouldn't be misinterpreted:  As one of the few school districts in Oregon open for students, we have learned important lessons about how to ‘fine-tune’ management of COVID activity.  We continue to pay close attention and adhere to precautionary measures, limit exposure, conduct contract tracing, and report any risks.  In addition, we are in daily contact with our local health department and incorporate their advice on every move. Our number one aim is to keep students and staff safe, even if numbers rise.

“Please keep in the forefront of your mind that COVID is still a dangerous disease, and we strongly urge people to take the advice of public health authorities and use common sense to protect themselves, our community, and our schools from infection. That's what will get us back to normal operations faster than anything.”