School Closure Friday March 13- Friday, March 20 2020
March 12, 2020
Dear Families:
Since our communication yesterday, we have seen a significant shift in the coronavirus outbreak. We spoke this morning with our local health department officials and at this time, we still do not have any presumptive or confirmed cases in Concord or Carlisle. However, in the last 24 hours, we have seen an increase in secondary and tertiary contacts reporting possible exposure with an individual who may have been tested for the virus. Therefore, we have decided to take proactive measures to slow the rapid spread of the virus.
We have made the decision to close all of the PreK-8 Concord Public Schools and Concord-Carlisle High School starting tomorrow, March 13, 2020. Schools will remain closed through Friday, March 20, 2020. It is important for families to understand that this is an initial determination, and as we monitor the outbreak next week, it is likely that this may lead to a longer closure. This closure applies to all schools, including students who are attending out-of-district schools, extra-curricular activities, athletics, clubs, and building use.
Closing our schools are only a part of the broader solution to prevent community spread of this virus. If students and families continue to meet together in groups outside of school, this initial 6-day closure will not have the desired impact. It is critical that students and families refrain from meeting in large groups and practice social distancing as recommended by the CDC.
We will continue to closely monitor this situation and follow the guidance of our local Boards of Health, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). We will make a decision about whether we need to extend the March 13 through March 20 closure for a longer period of time no later than Friday, March 20, and we will communicate that to families as soon as possible. Regardless of the length of our district closure, DESE guidance indicates that the last day of school for all schools will not go beyond June 19, 2020 as originally outlined in the additional 5 snow days embedded in the 2019-2020 calendar.
While we are closed March 13, 2020- March 20, 2020:
- We have been developing virtual learning opportunities for students at all levels. Those will be shared by Monday, March 13. Please watch for further information.
- Our custodial staff will be cleaning and disinfecting all schools.
- School offices will be open on Friday, March 13, 2020 in the event a family member needs to pick up materials. Please contact the school office prior to coming to the school building to let them know you are coming. Please do not come if you are sick.
As we move through next week, we will communicate with you further with additional details about our closure. We recognize that this is unprecedented and that this closure will be a significant burden for a number of our families. Should you or your family need support during this period, please do not hesitate to reach out to me and the school administrators via email.
Thank you for your support.
Best,
Laurie