Change in H1N1 policy could re-open Stevens Elementary early

A change in stance by King County Health officials might lead to re-opening Stevens Elementary earlier this week than planned, Seattle Schools spokesperson David Tucker tells CHS this morning.

"We're going to hold those discussions with King County Health and our staff," Tucker said, adding that the discussions will happen immediately and an announcement could come as early as today. "We're working closely with Public Health. The main focus is on the health and well being of our students and staff."

Last Thursday, Seattle Public Schools, on the recommendation from the King County Health Department, closed Stevens Elementary for a week after it was discovered that a student had attended class while sick with what potentially could be the H1N1 flu virus. At the time, Stevens was one of several schools closed because of the recommendation. Stevens is currently slated to re-open on Friday, May 8.

On Sunday, King County officials changed their recommendation from closing the entire school for a week to only requiring that the individual student or staff stay home for that period.