Closure of Lowell High School

Press Release

San Francisco (March 5, 2020) - The District has just learned this afternoon that a parent of a Lowell High School student is being treated for COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. Out of an abundance of caution and for the safety and well-being of our community, we have decided to close the school and all events and gatherings for the time being. The school will not be open on Friday and we will share an updated message before Monday. Students, faculty, and staff are not to be on campus during this time once everyone has safely left the campus. Students who receive transportation services will maintain their regular schedule and will be dropped off at their usual time and usual location.  

We know that the student whose relative is being treated was not in school after lunchtime today. The Department of Public Health has assessed the student. There is no confirmation that the student has contracted COVID-19 and the student does not have and has not had any symptoms. The student is in self-quarantine. 

This is an unfolding situation and we’re working with the Department of Public Health, Department of Emergency Management and City partners to determine the next steps. 

There is still a lot of information we do not have. We know that closing school is disruptive and we appreciate your understanding while we continue to gather facts. Given that this is an unfolding situation, we ask for our community to work with us as we continue to coordinate with health officials. We will continue to provide updates.

While it is not our intent to cause undue alarm or disruption to our students’ learning, the District has decided to act conservatively and in the best interest of our community members in announcing this closure. We will continue to be transparent with you and communicate what we know as frequently as possible.