SFUSD Reopening Lowell High School After 3-Day Closure

Press Release

San Francisco (March 10, 2020) - Given current guidance from health experts and what is known at this time, SFUSD is reopening Lowell on Wednesday, March 11. The district has done enhanced cleaning at Lowell High School to ensure the campus is clean when it reopens.

SFUSD continues to work with the SF Department of Public Health (SFDPH) to develop plans for the best way to address the COVID-19 epidemic and reduce transmission. On March 9, the SF Board of Education and District's executive team received a thorough briefing from SFDPH officials. 

“The decision to dismiss Lowell early on Thursday, March 5 and remain closed through Tuesday, March 10 was made in an abundance of caution while we continued to gather information. We know this was a conservative decision and we appreciate the patience and understanding of the Lowell community through this disruption,” said Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews. “We recognize how challenging this situation is for our families, students, and staff and take this situation very seriously. We are taking preventative measures in response to new information every day.” 

“We know COVID-19 is in our community and with increased testing there will likely be more cases identified daily. We plan to announce more details about the district's plans before the end of the week,” said Superintendent Matthews. 

Per new guidance from the City of San Francisco to limit people being exposed to the virus by reducing the number of occasions when people come together, all non-essential events at all SFUSD schools — including Lowell — are cancelled effective March 9, 2020 until March 22, 2020. Cancelling non-essential events allows SFUSD to limit contact while also maintaining a school-based learning environment, which aligns with SFDPH’s recommendation to keep schools open at this time. If there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 at a school, the Health Department will work with the school and the district to determine the best measures including potential school closure. The district has let all families and staff know that if a child stays home from school due to health concerns, SFUSD will consider it an excused absence. 

While a parent of a Lowell High School student was treated for COVID-19, no Lowell student has been diagnosed with COVID-19. The student whose parent was diagnosed has been tested for COVID-19 and received a negative diagnosis. Some people are wondering if they may have come in contact with the student whose parent was diagnosed. The Department of Public Health investigates when there is a confirmed case, and will notify any individuals who should be concerned. 

Please check sfusd.edu/covid19 for updates and resources.