Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The family member of an employee at John Small Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a social media post and phone call to parents from John Small Elementary School Principal Kelly Makepeace.

“Thankfully, we do not have to worry about any of our students being exposed since school was already out by the time this family member was exposed,” Makepeace wrote.

The school publicly shared the information with the permission of the family.

“I felt it was important for you to hear this straight from me, as I know there are many rumors circulating the community and social media,” Makepeace said. “I want to share with you the truth and what we know to hopefully give you some peace and ease your fears.”

Makepeace said that the family member is feeling good and has only experienced a runny nose and slight cough.

“Our employee is also feeling great and showing no signs of illness,” she added. “They have been quarantined to their house for 14 days, so our prayers are definitely with them during this two week period.”

As a precaution, JSS was closed Wednesday while a team performed a thorough cleaning of the building. As of noon Wednesday, Makepeace said the building had been disinfected.

John Small is not one of the seven sites in Beaufort County where students are being served drive-thru meals.