An individual has tested positive for COVID-19 at RancheView School in Cochrane.

In a letter sent home to parents, Sharon Cronin, Principal at the kindergarten to grade eight school said the positive case of the virus has been confirmed by Alberta Health Services (AHS).

For privacy reasons, Cronin hasn't said whether the infected individual is a teacher or a student.

In her letter, Cronin states that the school is working closely with AHS to ensure that the necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of students and staff. Cronin says that the school will remain open.

"Our school will remain open for in-class learning," says Cronin. "A deep clean of the school will be completed before students return to class on Monday."

Students and staff that would likely have been in close contact with the infected individual, have been provided additional information about mandatory isolation and will also be contacted directly by AHS. 

Rocky View Schools is reminding families that screening for  COVID-19 is essential. 

Superintendent of Rocky View Schools, Greg Luterbach says that all students and staff are expected to conduct a daily health check before heading to school each day. 

If a teacher or student answers 'YES' to any of the questions on the provincial self-assessment tool they are expected to stay home until their symptoms resolve. You can access the provincial self-screening questionnaire here. 

In her letter, Cronin goes on to say that her thoughts are with anyone impacted by this news.

"Our thoughts are with all individuals impacted by this positive case," says Cronin. "We wish anyone impacted a quick recovery and look forward to their return to school when they are well, and it is safe."

This is the first confirmed case of COVID-19 within a Cochrane school since the start of the school year.