DERBY — UPDATE: ON MARCH 15, GOV. LAMONT ISSUED AN EXECUTIVE ORDER: The order directs classes at public schools throughout the entire state to be canceled effective Tuesday, March 17 and lasting through at least March 31.
Derby Public Schools will be closed until March 30, Superintendent Matthew Conway announced in a message to parents Thursday night.
The message was as follows:
“Good evening Derby Family,
After participating on a call with Dr. Cartter, our State Epidemiologist, as a precautionary measure to reduce further spreading of COVID-19 Derby Public Schools will be closed beginning tomorrow for two weeks with plans to return Monday March 30, 2020.
Please look tomorrow for more information regarding your child’s Everyday Learning Plans and our plan to distribute lunches to all families beginning Monday through the closure. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you and your family. Thanks, and have a great evening!
School board chairman Jim Gildea noted the commissioner of education was involved in the conference call referenced in Conway’s message.
“In an effort to exercise every possible caution, ensure the safety and health of our students and staff and to do our part to ensure that we do not contribute to the spreading of the virus, the Derby school system has decided to close school for two weeks,” Gildea told The Valley Indy.
“This was done after careful thought, consideration and consultation with healthcare professionals and various branches of the state government.”
(Note: Ansonia Public Schools sent word Thursday night schools are closed Friday).
Derby’s move comes after Gov. Ned Lamont’s press conference Thursday. During that press conference, Lamont said the state would waive the 180-day rule requirement.
The COVID-19 virus is predicted to keep spreading through Fairfield County and into New Haven, state officials said. The idea is to be cautious, and slow the spread, Gildea said. He noted New Haven schools announced a closing Thursday as well. Click here for a story on that.
The Derby school board had been scheduled to meet Thursday night but the meeting was canceled.
