COVID-19 Cases Among Wakefield Students Highest In State

WAKEFIELD, MA — Fifteen students in the Wakefield Public Schools tested positive for the coronavirus between Nov. 12 and 18, according to data released Friday by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Three staff members also tested positive for COVID-19 during that time.

DESE tracks students who have been in school for hybrid/in-person learning and staff members who have building access. Wakefield's case count among students was the highest in the state this week, followed by Milton with 14 cases.

There have been 25 student cases and three staff cases in the Wakefield Public Schools since September, according to the town's dashboard. Wakefield was labeled a moderate-risk community by the DPH this week, but town officials are cautioning residents to be vigilant amid rising positive test rates.

"Though we are weary, we must continue to adhere to best practices; we cannot become complacent," Town Administrator Stephen Maio and Superintendent of Schools Douglas Lyons said in a joint statement Friday. "We want to keep students in their classrooms and we want to keep our businesses open. As you celebrate Thanksgiving this year, consider making adjustments to your typical routine."