October 21, 2020 1:40 p.m.

Winston-Dillard School Superintendent Kevin Miller has provided more information regarding Wednesday’s closure of Douglas High School and staffing issues, after one student tested positive for COVID-19.

In a letter sent to students, families and staff, and provided to News Radio 1240 KQEN, Miller said that there were 13 staff members who were unable to work on Wednesday. Miller said 7 of those were staff that are under quarantine orders from the Douglas Public Health Network, related to the positive test. Miller said the district relies on the Douglas Education Service District to provide substitutes as they are needed. He said in a good year, it is difficult to find enough subs during the typical “cold and flu” season. Miller said during the pandemic, the availability of substitutes is expected to become a critical issue.

Miller said the district was only able to secure 2 substitutes for Wednesday, which left them 11 staff short. He said it was not possible to continue in-person services with that many missing staff. Miller said the district is hoping to find enough substitutes to work on Thursday, so that Douglas High School can re-open.