Gisborne Secondary College was closed on Monday after two positive cases of COVID-19 were linked to the school over the weekend.
The first case was reported on Friday and the school was closed on Saturday as a precaution until the case could be investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Principal Jon Morley advised parents on Sunday morning that the infected person had been self isolating at home and DHHS had advised it was safe for the school to reopen, but by late Sunday night Mr Morley had again contacted parents to advise of a second case, involving a student, and a second school closure for Monday.
Mr Morley said the closure would allow time for the school and DHHS to undertake a risk assessment and determine what further steps were necessary, such as appropriate cleaning of the school site and contact tracing.
“I realise this is difficult news, and I would like to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to ensure the health and safety of our whole school community,” he said.
“We have acted quickly and we continue to followed the advice from DHHS and DET on this matter.”
The college will remain closed Tuesday and Wednesday while cleaning is done and contract tracing continues.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said she appreciated this was a very uncertain time for the community, but people could be assured that DHHS was closely monitoring what was happening in the Macedon Ranges, including at Gisborne Secondary College.
“I strongly encourage everyone to continue practicing social distancing, to wear a mask when shopping for essentials and to get tested if you are feeling sick.
“Now more than ever we need to remember that we’re all in this together, and that while we may be feeling anxious or concerned, we should still treat each other with respect and kindness.”
