2 Prairie High School staffers test positive for coronavirus

Two staff members at Prairie High School were diagnosed with the novel coronavirus. No students were exposed.

Battle Ground Public Schools on Wednesday alerted its families that two staff members were diagnosed with the virus. One was last on campus on Sept. 16, according to an email sent to families. The other was not on campus while they were infectious.

According to the email, Clark County Public Health has identified close contacts of the staff members and alerted them. No students were among those exposed.

Clark County returned to the “high risk” category of coronavirus transmission Tuesday, reporting 76.15 new cases per 100,000 residents over a two-week period. Under state Department of Health guidelines, schools in counties where the transmission rate is above 75 new cases per 100,000 people should keep classes online.

Small groups of high-needs students, including those who are homeless or those with disabilities, may attend some classes.

Clark County must remain in the “moderate” transmission level, between 50 and 75 cases per 100,000 residents, for three weeks before Clark County Public Heath will recommend reopening for more students. Tuesday’s news started that three-week calendar over.