Branford Schools To Begin Year Fully In-Person: Superintendent

BRANFORD, CT — Branford Public Schools officials plan to begin the 2021-22 school year fully in-person with no option for remote learning, Superintendent Hamlet Hernandez said in an update outlining back-to-school policies.

The district is forming its rules based on guidelines from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, which along with the Connecticut State Department of Education released guidance last week that prioritizes in-person learning across the state.

Face coverings will be required of all BPS students and staff in schools and on buses, Hernandez said, and students will keep 3 feet of social distance whenever possible.

Schools will continue to follow cleaning protocols, ventilation systems will be inspected and maintained and students will eat outdoors for as long as the weather will allow, Hernandez said.

Extracurricular activities will begin on time or with minimal delay/modification, and additional information on interscholastic sports is forthcoming.

"We expect further guidance from the state in the next few weeks and will continue to share information about what you can expect for your child this fall," Hernandez said in his update, noting periodic updates will be posted on the BPS website.

Hernandez is recommending that students and their families get vaccinated if eligible and avoid indoor congregate settings if unvaccinated. Parents should not send their children to school if they are symptomatic, Hernandez said, and should have a plan in case their children need to isolate or quarantine.