Medford's 'Red' Designation Will Not Affect School Reopening

MEDFORD, MA — It's not yet time to start amending the school reopening plan in Medford. The city marked its first week on the state's high-risk, or "red," list Thursday, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education reported one COVID-19 case among students and two among teachers in Medford from Oct. 22-28.

But state guidelines say Medford has three more weeks before it should consider closing schools. Gov. Charlie Baker and the DESE have advised districts not to roll back their reopening plans until they are in the "red" category for four consecutive weeks.

MPS said in a statement Friday it believes it can continue hybrid instruction safely. Fifth-graders returned to school Monday, meaning all elementary students who have selected the hybrid model will receive in-person instruction.

Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent said Friday she hopes there will be a clearer timeline by the end of the week for in-person learning at Medford High School and both middle schools.

Students and staff are asked to remember the following health and safety guidelines:

1. Masks: Always wear a suitable face covering inside MPS schools.
2. Distancing: Maintain at least six-feet of physical distancing at all times.
3. Wash: Wash your hands, frequently.
4. Stay-at-home (Individual): Do not come to school/work if you are feeling sick or if someone in your household is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
5. Stay-at-home (Household): Do not come to school/work if you or someone in your household is awaiting COVID-19 test results due to potential exposure.
6. Notify: Immediately communicate to your school nurse or to the Supervisor of Health Services if you test positive.
7. Be Informed: Take guidance approved by or offered directly from MPS Health Services or City of Medford Board of Health.
8. Honorary step: get a flu shot!