COVID-19 case counts across Mat-Su schools approach 200

Some schools in the Mat-Su Valley are grappling with outbreaks of COVID-19 just two weeks into the new semester. 

The district reported 181 cases over the previous seven days on Tuesday, according to its COVID-19 dashboard.  That’s a 166% increase from the previous Wednesday, including more than thirty new cases at Houston Jr/Sr High School.

Despite the high number of cases, Houston is only considered to be at “medium risk”.  Nine other schools in the system have also been bumped up to medium risk, with masks being required at those schools.

Butte Elementary and Glacier View Elementary schools have closed temporarily, reporting widespread transmission either within the schools, themselves, or within the community.  Those schools will transition to remote learning with a status update scheduled for no later than September 6th.

About three-quarters of Mat-Su Schools are currently considered “low risk”, including Wasilla High School. Wasilla High has reported eight cases of Covid during the last seven days, but maintains a “low risk” status.

Susitna Valley High School and Willow Elementary have each documented a small number of cases of Covid-19 this semester, according to the district’s COVID-19 dashboard.  Willow, with three cases, has moved into “medium risk” and masks are required for staff and grades 3 to 5.

Masks are currently not mandated at “low risk” schools, but are recommended by the district and the Department of Public Health.