COVID-19 March 12, 2020 Update

Good afternoon North Reading Public School’s Community,

As previously communicated, at this time there are no known instances of COVID-19 illness present in our schools. However, we have been receiving information this morning about staff members who may have been in close contact with those exposed to COVID-19 as well as students and staff who have recently returned from travel to countries now designated overnight as Level 3.

Out of an abundance of caution, I have made the decision to dismiss North Reading High School students beginning at 12:40 p.m. today and North Reading Middle School Students at 1:00 p.m. today in order to begin a deep cleaning of the schools. Our elementary schools will have already dismissed by this time due to the previously scheduled conferences (which are now cancelled.)

We will remain closed tomorrow, March 13th, at all schools so we can do a second deep cleaning and disinfecting of all buildings. I am in contact with the North Reading Board of Health who continues to work with us and advise us on next steps. Schools and public health officials will be monitoring the ongoing circumstances this weekend and will communicate whether further school closures are necessary for next week. 

Once again, at this time no known COVID-19 illness is present in our schools and this action is out of an abundance of caution.

For students taking bus transportation, buses will be available for them to take home. If there are students who need a ride, school leadership will be available at the school to assist them and make sure they have a way to get home. Please contact your building principal with any questions.

All afternoon and evening activities are cancelled. If you have children in the YMCA after-school programs you are encouraged to please arrange to pick your child up as soon as possible this afternoon so that we can continue to clean the buildings.

We will continue to communicate with you as information becomes available.

Thank you for your support and cooperation as we work together to keep our schools and students safe.

Patrick Daly, Superintendent