Cambridge Public Schools: IMPORTANT: School Closed Monday/Tuesday For Testing

Press release from Cambridge Public Schools:

12/31/2021

IMPORTANT: School Closed Monday/Tuesday for Testing

Dear CPS families -

I am writing with an important update about CPS’ plan to prevent the spread and impact of COVID-19. After careful consideration and in collaboration with the Cambridge Public Health Department, we have made the decision to delay the return to school until Wednesday, January 5. Schools will be closed on Monday, January 3 and Tuesday January 4 for staff and student COVID testing.

As has been the case throughout the pandemic, we must continue to make difficult decisions with imperfect plans that change with the circumstances. CPS has a very strong COVID mitigation plan that combines ventilation improvements, a comprehensive testing program and availability of PPE. The fast-spreading Omicron variant has caused a significant rise in COVID cases, supply chain shortages, challenges for families/staff accessing testing appointments, and information about likely staff shortages next week, therefore, we believe that delaying the return to school is in the best interest of our school community.

This decision puts CPS in the strongest position possible to test as many students as possible on Monday, receive results on Tuesday and return to in-person learning on Wednesday with minimal disruptions by reducing unnecessary quarantines later this week and beyond.

We highly encourage all families to do your part and have your student get a COVID test Sunday or Monday.

CPS and the Cambridge Public Health Department will administer PCR tests for all CPS students on Monday, January 2, from 10AM - 4PM at four locations (Peabody, King Open, Morse, CRLS).

Important details for CPS Student Testing:

Family Portal copy of this form

If your student will not participate in CPS testing, we highly recommend that you get a COVID test at a community site. Details about Cambridge sites can be found here.

Vaccination Opportunity
We strongly encourage families and students to get vaccinated and boosted! The City of Cambridge is offering appointment-required vaccine clinics on Monday, January 3 (4-8PM) and Thursday, January 6 (11-3PM) at the CambridgeSide mall and Wednesday, January 5 (3:30-7:30PM) at CRLS Field House.

I am grateful for your understanding, continued support and partnership as we work together to keep our schools and community safe.

Make It Great!!

Dr. Victoria L. Greer
Interim Superintendent

All students urged to get tested: Monday, 10AM - 4PM @Peabody, King Open, Morse, or CRLS. Consent form required.

Details here >>

This press release was produced by Cambridge Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author’s own.