(KNZA)--Hiawatha USD 415 will remain with on-site learning at this time.

The Hiawatha School Board made the decision Monday evening following a lenghty discussion after receiving an update from the district's health committee on the number of COVID-19 positive cases and quarantined individuals within the district.

Concern was voiced about the high number of students out at the district's schools. Of primary concern was the middle school, where 90 students were out Monday--79 due to COVID-related issues. In addition, the middle school had seven staff members out Monday.

School nurses Whitney McCauley and Erin Wenger said there had not been any confirmed student to student transmissions at the district's schools.

The board also heard from County Health Officer Robyn Downard about modifying quarantine protocol to a less strict one that wouldn't affect as many people if they were exposed to COVID. Downard said Nemaha and Jefferson Counties have adopted a modified quarantine protocol. She said she plans to present the proposal to the Brown County Commission Monday for approval. If approved by commissioners, it would then go to the school board for adoption.

In other business, High School Athletic Director Kim Lillie shared plans for attendance at high school basketball games. The board agreed to a ticket system along with temperature checks and a mask mandate.

With 42 middle school boys out for basketball, Middle School Principal Kyley Gatz explained the plans to handle practices and games. The board agreed to proceed with alternating practice days and assigning games for the junior varsity team.