LCHS football practice suspended

By TONY FYFFE

BSN Editor

LOUISA — Football practice at Lawrence County High School was suspended Tuesday after a member of the coaching staff tested positive for COVID-19.The staff member, who was not identified, tested positive Tuesday morning “using a 15-minute rapid test,” Superintendent Dr. Robbie Fletcher said in a release on Facebook.The staff member was not involved in any back-to-school events held recently, Fletcher said.“I have talked with our local health department officials and the regional epidemiologist that serves the eastern part of our Commonwealth,” Fletcher said. “I provided these health officials with all the information that I have been provided.”Based on those discussions, Fletcher said, LCHS football practice is suspended for 14 days and “at this time” will resume Tuesday, Sept 8.“Based on the current information, our high school football student-athletes are at a low to minimal risk, but for transparency, there is a risk,” Fletcher said. “It is recommended that our parents monitor their students for any symptoms. If symptoms become evident, it is recommended that the parent takes their student for testing. Of course, COVID testing is a parent decision, not the decision of the district administration.”Fletcher said other sports can proceed with practice.The announcement came the day before students in the Lawrence County School District began non-traditional instruction (NTI).