The Bush SchoolAnnouncements
Signature Required - Updated Consent Forms for In-School SARS-CoV2 and Influenza Testing
With only 32% of eligible King County residents having received their COVID-19 Bivalent Booster, an early influenza season, as well as record numbers of RSV cases and hospitalizations, public health officials are sounding the alarm about stretching the already strapped hospital systems.
Recently, Dr. Anthony Fauci, as well as local health leaders in King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties recommended masking in indoor public places due to the unprecedented level of respiratory viruses causing severe symptoms. The Bush School will continue to be mask optional, however, we encourage families to consider masking their student, especially if their student has developed any new symptoms. Obtaining an annual influenza vaccine as well as the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will also help alleviate pressure on our health care systems.
To help in differentiating between COVID-19 and influenza, the Department of Health (DOH) has sent The Bush School an in-office test that detects SARS-CoV2, and two strains of Influenza (A and B), similar to the ones used in PCP and urgent care clinics. This test will be used for students, faculty, and staff who feel ill with fever or flu-like symptoms, to help diagnose influenza early and treat with Tamiflu as needed. This new test will require a consent form, so any families, staff or faculty who request this test will need to sign this form and email School Wellness Coordinator Happy Salinas-Santos or drop off at the School Wellness Office.
As you depart for Winter Break, don’t forget that rapid COVID-19 home tests are readily available to all families at the Main Office, at the School Wellness Office, and all division assistants’ offices.
The Bush School is an independent, coeducational day school located in Seattle, WA enrolling 715 students in grades K–12. The mission of The Bush School is to spark in students of diverse backgrounds and talents a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities.
3400 East Harrison Street, Seattle WA 98112 (206) 322-7978
The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment, recruitment, admissions, or administration of any of its programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. In addition, The Bush School does not discriminate in matters of employment on the basis of age or marital status.