Middletown High School Switches To Remote Learning

MIDDLETOWN, RI—Middletown High School is transitioning to remote learning until November 17 after experiencing a sudden increase in positive coronavirus cases.

According to a statement released by Superintendent Rosemarie Kraeger, the increase in cases follows a party at which at least 20 Middletown High School students were in attendance. As of Monday, 10 students at the school have tested positive for COVID-19 and remain in quarantine.

"We are learning that some of our students attended a party where students were not socially distancing or wearing masks," wrote Kraeger. "The RIDOH is now considering this event a possible 'super spreader' event."

The school was notified of one positive case on Wednesday, one on Thursday, and an additional two on Friday, when the school announced its closure. The remaining six cases were confirmed over the weekend.

"A distance learning schedule will be sent to all student and staff by Monday," Kraeger wrote on Friday. "We will clean all classrooms, bathrooms, and other spaces used by students and staff in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"I do want to take this opportunity to note that social gatherings are now limited to 10 in the state of Rhode Island. Again, I ask that you be vigilant with your child. We all need to work together to keep our community safe."

Kraeger assured students and parents that Middletown High School staff will continue to work with the Rhode Island Department of Health's COVID-19 unit to determine who had close contact with the students who have tested positive.

"We ask that if you or anyone in your family has a positive COVID test, you inform the school nurse," wrote Kraeger in an update on Monday. "This is essential for the well being on everyone in the community."