Dear Parents/Guardians and Community Members:
The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the most recent information on COVID (+) cases in the District. While we can expect additional positive cases this week, we have no known school transmission of the virus. If the public health department determines the virus is being transmitted in school, all appropriate measures, up to and including school closure, will be instituted.
Today, the District was notified that four members of the school community, two at Branford High School, one at Mary T. Murphy School, and one at Walsh Intermediate School, tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing the total number of COVID (+) cases to 28 since September 10, 2020. The affected persons were last in school on November 3, 2020 and November 13, 2020. Each has been instructed to remain on home isolation for 10 days. Anyone considered a “close contact” of these people has already been contacted by school officials and/or public health officials and provided with instructions on the appropriate steps to take. Per our reporting procedures, all COVID (+) cases of employees or students are reported to the Connecticut State Department of Education.
We ask that parents/guardians, students, and staff continue to follow CDC guidance for healthy practices, to monitor their health, and to stay home and contact their medical provider should they experience any of the symptoms below.
Fever (100.4° Fahrenheit or higher)
- Chills or shaking chills
- Uncontrolled new cough (not due to other known cause, such as chronic cough)
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- New loss of taste or smell
- For additional information on COVID-19 symptoms, please see the CDC website at the address below: https://www.cdc.gov/coronaviru...
With the approaching holiday, it is imperative we all adhere to the State of Connecticut travel restrictions. Our school district will continue to monitor the evolving crisis and appreciates your partnership in making choices that help to keep our staff, students, and community safe.
Sincerely,
Hamlet M. Hernandez
Superintendent of Schools