Idaho’s schoolreopening frameworkasked local health districts to analyze community transmission levels and assign a risk category, ranging from 1 to 3.
Boise County, Elmore County and Valley County have all been placed in Category 2. Ada County’s school districts are in Category 3, which could mean extended building closures.
"All four of our counties have had at least minimal community transmission," said Central District Health Director Russell Duke at the public meeting held Tuesday evening.
Ada County Commissioner Diana Lachiondo says data shows that private gatherings, such as family barbecues or baby showers, are the main culprits for transmission.
“In order to achieve what we need to achieve, not overwhelm the healthcare systems and, just as important at this point, get schools reopened, we need them to do their part in private gatherings," said Lachiondo.
These risk assessments for community spread in schools are only recommendations. Local school boards will make the final decision on reopening. Some districts have already opted to go fully online, while others are still weighing in-person classes this fall.
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