From: Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens, Vicar for Catholic Education

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed that a parent of the St. Thomas Academy community tested positive for COVID-19. The individual and the school are coordinating their response with the Minnesota Department of Health. After consultation with the Archdiocese, St. Thomas Academy announced last night it will be closed today and tomorrow, March 12 and 13. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby Convent of the Visitation School is also closed today and tomorrow. Both schools were already scheduled to be closed next week for spring break and will remain closed as long as recommended by public health officials. Please pray, today, for all involved.

The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis’ Office for the Mission of Catholic Education is working with the 91 Catholic schools in our 12 counties to provide information as the situation with COVID-19 continues to develop. It is important for us to keep school leaders and the more than 29,000 school families apprised of any developments so they can all make prudent decisions to help stop the spread of the virus.

The faithful of the Archdiocese are praying for the healing and protection of all affected by the Coronavirus and we invite others to join us in this intention.