Northwood High School Kitchen Staff Member Tests Positive for COVID-19

A food and nutrition services staff member at Northwood High School has tested positive for COVID-19, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) reported in a press release on Friday.

The employee working with meal distribution from the school last worked at the Northwood distribution site on Thursday, Oct. 8. The staff member wore masks and gloves—consistent with CDC guidance—thus MCPS and Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services believe the risk to students and families who receive these meals is low.

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MCPS has asked for other employees who worked with the affected staff member to self-quarantine for 14 days since their last contact with the employee.

The school kitchen is temporarily closed for cleaning and MCPS will use a mobile delivery truck through Oct. 14 to continue food distribution at Northwood High School, in accordance with CDC guidelines for physical distancing.

MCPS advises anyone who visited the school prior to or on Oct. 8 should self-monitor for symptoms and contact their health providers if they show symptoms or have any questions.

Gboyinde Onijala, an MCPS spokesperson, told MyMCMedia in an email Friday that the severity of the employee’s symptoms are currently unknown.

About Nicolle Schorchit

Nicolle Schorchit was a senior dual degree student in plant sciences and multiplatform journalism at the University of Maryland during the fall 2020 semester when she interned with Montgomery Community Media.

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