9 test positive for coronavirus at Georgia high school where viral crowded-hallway photo was taken

The Georgia high school at the center of a viral photo showing a packed hallway has recently seen nine positive coronavirus tests among students and staff members, according to a memo sent to parents.

The six students and three employees who tested positive were each present last week at North Paulding High School, reports ABC News, which acquired the letter.

The school in Dallas, Ga., learned of the new COVID-19 cases after the students and staffers underwent private tests.

“We have anticipated that COVID-19 would impact us as it has nearly every community, and the district has worked in partnership with the Department of Public Health (DPH) to proactively implement safety precautions and response plans,” the school’s letter reads, according to ABC.

The memo reportedly does not outline whether school closures or quarantines will take place in response to the positive tests. The school said disinfecting protocol will continue to take place daily.

North Paulding High School found itself in the middle of controversy after Hannah Watters, the 15-year-old who shared the photo showing a hallway packed with students, was suspended last week.

Watters, who is 10th grade, has since been reinstated. Another student who was also reportedly suspended has been reinstated as well.