COVID-19 Testing Coming To 134 School Districts: Patch PM

Today is Wednesday, Nov. 18. Here are some of the top stories we are covering.

Massachusetts is set to begin a COVID rapid test program that will allow students and staff to be tested if they are showing symptoms.

Phase 1 of the program will begin in early December in 134 school districts, charter schools, and special education collaboratives.

The tests are for schools that have any form of in-person learning. All 134 have been selected already, according to the state, but the list has not been made public yet.

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Also

Melrose's Clark Ascends To Top Democratic Leadership Position

U.S. Rep Katherine Clark was elected by her fellow Democratic House members to the position of assistant speaker, elevating her to one of the highest leadership posts in Congress.

Clark was elected, 135-92, in a remote vote Wednesday. She was vying for the spot against U.S. Rep David Cicilline of Rhode Island.

Clark, of Melrose, is already the second-highest ranking in the House. Now she's the fourth-highest ranking member overall.

The position holds added significance as the three ranking members ahead of them are all in their 80s.

Man Struck On Route 1 In Saugus, Police Searching For Driver

Police are asking for help identifying the driver who drove off after hitting a person on Route 1 Wednesday morning.

The victim, a 24-year-old man from Gloucester, was brought to Massachusetts General Hospital with serious injuries.

State Police said he was struck around 10:17 a.m. on Route 1 South. The man was working at an area business when he stepped into the road to get a barrel that blew over.

Other top stories

Eversource Truck In Crash That Killed Bicyclist In Milton

“This was an absolutely tragic accident. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends,” an Eversource spokesman said.

Chelsea Man Charged In Boston Public Garden Rape

Francisco Romero, 38, forced a woman into the Boston Public Garden and sexually assaulted her Nov. 8, police said.

River Street Closed After Van Crashes Into Poles In Waltham

Crews are working to repair utility poles.

Third Suspect In Wakefield Shooting ID'd

Authorities say Shemar Nelms, 18, shot a woman in the Everly Apartments parking garage in September. Two juveniles also face charges.

Woman Hurled Racial Slurs During Marlborough Fight: Police

The 56-year-old was arrested early Tuesday morning on multiple charges, according to police.

James Taylor, Paula Cole To Headline Cabot Theater's 100th Bash

The historic Beverly theater will host "Lights. Camera. Cabot 100 Celebration." remotely free to those who register on Dec. 3.

2 Women Killed In Separate Crashes In Brockton

Police are still looking for the driver who struck and killed a woman on Pleasant Street at about 7:15 p.m.