2023-24 Covid Protocols and guidance
As of May 11th 2023, the Governor's office announced that the Massachusetts State Covid 19 public health emergency was over. This aligns with the end of the federal public health emergency.
As the new school year begins, we will continue to update you as any changes arise and we want to provide you with an overview of our ongoing Covid 19 protocols. Below is a summary of practices and policies that will continue this year.
Our schools will continue to be mask-optional and we will continue to provide messaging that normalizes an individual’s choice to wear a mask.
COVID Reporting
Nurses will continue to track reported Covid cases along with other illness using School Nurse Reporting systems. There will be no specific Covid tracking system.
Students Testing Positive for COVID
--Families should continue to inform the schools if and when their student tests positive for COVID.
--A student who tests positive for COVID will still be required to remain out of school (and isolate) for 5 days.
--A student may return to school on Day 6 with minimal and improving symptoms and remain masked durings Day 6 through 10.
--If a student tests negative on Day 5 (or after), they are not required to wear a mask at school
--A student’s absence from school due to COVID will be treated the same as other absences for medical reasons in terms of make-up work, assignments, etc.
The District continues to encourage all staff and families to stay up to date with vaccines and boosters. Vaccines are an important protection against COVID - both in terms of contracting COVID and reducing the impact of COVID if they do test positive. If you have any clarifying questions, please contact your building principal or nurse. They will share with us any questions they are not able to address. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Massachusetts Department of Education Covid Information Website