Schools

Boston Schools Expected To Reopen In September, Walsh Says

Mayor Marty Walsh said a second surge in the fall could impact that, but for the time being he intends for schools to be back in September.

BOSTON — Mayor Marty Walsh said he expects the state's largest school system to reopen in September, but continued to stress the need for social distancing in the meantime.

Walsh, speaking to reporters Friday afternoon, said a second surge in the fall could impact school plans, but as of now his intention is for Boston Public Schools to reopen in September. How things develop between now and then will go a long way in determining the school situation.

Regarding a more general reopening, Walsh didn't say whether Boston would necessarily join the rest of the state when the stay-at-home advisory expires May 18. He said municipalities should make their own decisions, but the effort to reopen businesses should be a collaborative one.

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The city has increased coronavirus testing by 44 percent across Boston over the last week, Walsh said. Meanwhile, Health and Human Services Chief Marty Martinez said the results of the 1,000 people who were tested for antibodies by Massachusetts General Hospital should come next week.

Walsh also said people should enjoy what is expected to be nice weekend weather, but to keep practicing social distancing while doing so.

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