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Hull Public School Closure Extended Through Month of April

Posted on: March 27, 2020 - 11:39am
Gov. Baker Announced Extended Statewide Closure of Schools Until May 4

 

HULL -- Interim Superintendent Judith Kuehn announces that, in accordance with an order from Governor Charlie Baker, Hull Public Schools will remain closed through the end of April as a precaution against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The statewide closure of schools, originally set to end on April 7, has been extended to end Monday, May 4.

The closure of schools is an unprecedented step by the state that is seen as vital to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 and to continue the practice of social distancing as more positive cases and deaths are announced in the state each day.

COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus, has moved the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global pandemic. President Donald Trump has declared a national emergency and Governor Charlie Baker earlier this month declared a state of emergency in Massachusetts.

"We are awaiting for additional guidance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), which we are promised this week, and we will share with you when available," Interim Superintendent Kuehn said. "In the meantime, our first priority continues to be maintaining consistent communication with all students, so relationships are maintained and they are supported socially and emotionally."

All athletics programs, events and after school activities will also remain suspended and fields, playgrounds and play areas will be closed until further notice.

While schools remain closed, the district's food pick-up service for students and families will continue on a weekly basis. For more information about these services visit the school website: www.hullpublicschools.org.

As a reminder, custodians and maintenance staff are in the process of completing a comprehensive and thorough disinfecting and sanitizing of all school and Central Office buildings to ensure a healthy environment once classes resume.

Interim Superintendent Kuehn and district leaders will continue to monitor the guidance and regulations of local, state and federal health experts as the situation evolves. The health and safety of students, parents, teachers and staff is the district's number one priority.

Social Distancing

Due to the evolving spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts, Gov. Baker issued a stay-at-home advisory. This means all residents are advised to stay home during this time in order to curb the spread of this virus, with the exception of going grocery shopping or picking up medication.

Please continue to practice social distancing - maintaining a distance of approximately 6 feet from other people — and appropriate personal hygiene - with your children and explain to them the importance of doing so.

Social distancing will help to minimize exposure among people, especially given that COVID-19 is highly contagious and people may be contagious prior to exhibiting symptoms.

Children and COVID-19

Proper hygiene and prevention methods and social distancing efforts should continue until further guidelines are provided by state officials about the status of the virus.

Parents should not hold “play dates.” Clean and sanitize toys, video game controllers and all touch surfaces regularly.

Parents should not hold “play dates.” Clean and sanitize toys, video game controllers and all touch surfaces regularly.

Prevention Tips

Local, state and federal health officials are encouraging residents to take the following precautions to prevent infectious diseases, such as the flu and COVID-19, from spreading:

  • For a minimum of 20 seconds, wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoid close contact with those who are sick
  • Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, then throw the tissue away and wash your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces
  • If you are an essential employee who is continuing to go into work, stay home if you have a fever or are ill

COVID-19 Information Resources

Residents are encouraged to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:

  • Town of Hull Official Website: www.town.hull.ma.us.
  • Massachusetts Department of Public Health: www.mass.gov/covid-19
  • Massachusetts 2-1-1 general COVID-19 information: Click here or dial 2-1-1 (24/7)
  • Sign up for the Massachusetts COVID-19 Text Message Notification System to receive important updates: text "COVIDMA" to 888-777
  • United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov

Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available