Lynnfield Schools Delay In-Person Classes Due To Virus Case Surge

LYNNFIELD, MA — Lynnfield students will start the first two weeks of classes remote, instead of the hybrid model that was planned. An uptick in COVID-19 cases brought the town into the state designated red zone, forcing the School Committee to postpone in-person classes.

The town reported 17 new cases within 11 days, making it one of the 13 communities in the state designated as a "high risk" area. Students will be remote-learning until Sept. 30 but the district doesn't have a hard date on when in-person learning will start as it depends on the virus trends in town.

"Like so many others, I look forward to seeing my children return soon to in-person learning. I know that we can all come together as a community to make this possible," said Chair of the Board of Selectmen Chris Barrett in a statement, "The one thing that makes Lynnfield the best is how we always come together as a community during challenging times like this."

The town reminded residents that while the red designation is not good, it does not mean residents have to make drastic changes to their daily routines. Instead, the town is urging people to continue following CDC guidelines, including social distancing, wearing masks and frequent hand-washing.

"The designation does, however, affirm the need for all residents and businesses to maintain vigilance and conform to current recommended practices," the town said in a statement.

Lynnfield isn't the only community suddenly delaying in-person classes due to a surge in COVID-19 cases — Dedham made a similar decision on Wednesday night to delay in-person learning after a series of parties caused a COVID-19 cluster in town.

Lynnfield's full school reopening plan can be found online.