Dear Ellington Family,

Earlier this week, we learned a member of the Windermere Elementary community that  tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, we followed our standard practices of conservative contact tracing. In this case, a cohort (class) and several individuals were placed on a 10 day quarantine. Windermere Elementary remains in the full in-person learning model. 

Please remember, quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

This is our first case with in-school exposure in a few weeks, but it remains important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past couple of days and today, we learned of two members of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19 that participated in school events over the break. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, we followed our standard practices of conservative contact tracing and the summary of each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - between 0-5 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - between 0-5 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

Ellington High School will continue to operate in the in-person model. 

Stopping the spread of COVID is a whole community effort that requires small, sometimes inconvenient, efforts on the part of many to have a collective result. Although we are hopeful about the weeks to come, there is still work to be done to ensure schools operate safely and effectively for the remainder of the school year. 

Please remember, quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past couple of days and today, we learned of two members of the Ellington High School community that  tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, we followed our standard practices of conservative contact tracing and the summary of each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - between 5-10 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - between 10-15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

Based on the contact tracing of each of these cases, we continue to have confidence in our mitigation strategies within our buildings on a daily basis.  Ellington High School will continue to operate in the in-person model. 

Please remember, quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past couple of days and today, we learned of several members of the Ellington High School community that tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, we followed our standard practices of conservative contact tracing and the summary of each case is below. 

• Ellington High School (previously in quarantine) - between 0-5 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School (previously in quarantine) - between 10-15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School (previously in quarantine) - between 15-20 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - between 5-10 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - between 15-20 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - between 0-15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

It is clear from our contact tracing that the cases labeled as being “previously in quarantine” are most likely tied to social gatherings outside of school and possibly extracurricular activities such as athletics. In these cases,  the contact tracing and quarantine process worked, limiting the in-school exposure following a previous close contact. Two of the other cases are within the same family with transmission likely coming from outside of school. 

Based on the contact tracing of each of these cases,  we continue to have confidence in our mitigation strategies within our buildings on a daily basis and are continuing our work with coaches to ensure safety during team activities. Ellington High School will continue to operate in the in-person model. 

These cases illustrate the continued need to take COVID-19 seriously, both in school and at home. The past week has been difficult for the Ellington High School community and relaxed attention to preventing COVID-19 spread can only make things more challenging this spring. 

Please remember, quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a member of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  10-15 individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine.

We continue to speak at length with our public health partners about cases in the district.  We are confident in the safety provided by the mitigation strategies implemented at EHS, including contact tracing and quarantine measures. Ellington High School continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: allergies are not “just allergies” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday and today, we learned of three members of the Ellington High School community that  tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  we followed our standard conservative approach to contact tracing and quarantining. The summary of each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - less than 20 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - less than 25 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - less than 30 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

It is clear from our contact tracing that a few of the recent cases are mostly likely tied to social gatherings outside of school and possibly extracurricular activities such as athletics.  We continue to have confidence in our mitigation strategies within our buildings on a daily basis and are continuing our work with coaches to ensure safety during team activities. Ellington High School will continue to operate in the in-person model.

These cases illustrate the continued need to take COVID-19 seriously, both in school and at home. The past two days have been difficult for the Ellington High School community and relaxed attention to preventing COVID-19 spread can only make things more challenging for the whole Ellington Family this spring. 

Please remember, quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: allergies are not "just allergies" in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 
 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past few days, we have been notified of several cases of COVID-19 across multiple schools. In each case, district protocols were followed and contract tracing was performed in accordance with guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. All schools continue in the five day per week model. The summary information on each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - roughly 30 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - less than 20 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Windermere Elementary School - two cohorts placed on 10-day quarantine

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Windermere Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  two cohorts and a few other individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Windermere Elementary continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past few days, we have been notified of several cases of COVID-19 across multiple schools. In each case, district protocols were followed and contract tracing was performed in accordance with guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. All schools continue in the five day per week model. The summary information on each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - less than 25 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington Middle School - one cohort and several individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Crystal Lake School - less than 10 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past few days, we have been notified of several cases of COVID-19 across multiple schools. In each case, district protocols were followed and contract tracing was performed in accordance with guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. All schools continue in the five day per week model. The summary information on each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - less than 15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Windermere Elementary & Ellington High School - less than 15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Windermere Elementary- two cohorts, plus several individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Over the past several days, we have been notified of several unrelated cases of COVID-19 across multiple schools. In each case, district protocols were followed and contract tracing was performed in accordance with guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. All schools continue in the five day per week model. The summary information on each case is below. 

• Ellington Middle School - one cohort, plus several individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Center School - one cohort, plus a few individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Center School - one cohort, plus a few individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

It remains important to continue mitigation strategies moving forward, both at school and the broader community, even as more and more of our adults receive the vaccine. These cases are a reminder that COVID-19 is still with us and we need to avoid letting down our guard. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday, we learned that one member of the Ellington Middle School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one cohort and several other individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Ellington Middle School continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

This weekend and through today, we have been notified of several unrelated cases of COVID-19 across multiple schools. In each case, district protocols were followed and contract tracing was performed in accordance with guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. All schools continue in the five day per week model. The summary information on each case is below. 

• Ellington High School - less than 10 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Ellington High School - less than 15 individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Center School - one cohort, plus a few individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Crystal Lake School - one cohort, plus a few individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

• Crystal Lake School - one cohort, plus a few individuals placed on 10-day quarantine

We are optimistic that as case counts have dropped across the state, the length of time between these notifications has grown. However, as these cases demonstrate, we must all recognize that COVID-19 is still with us and we need to remain vigilant in practicing mitigation strategies moving forward. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  less than 25 individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Ellington High School continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday, we learned that one member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) and a few other individuals were placed on a 10-day quarantine.

Additionally we learned of a member of the Ellington High School community that tested positive for COVID-19. In that case,  less than 20 individuals were placed on quarantine for 10 days. 

Both schools continue in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  less than 15 individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Ellington High School continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

This weekend, we learned that one member of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  less than 20 individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Ellington High School continues in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

Typical for winter, we are beginning to see cases of the flu as well. With both viruses circulating in the general population, it is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday, we learned that one member of the Crystal Lake community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) and several other individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Crystal Lake School will continue in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

Typical for January, we are beginning to see cases of the flu as well. With both viruses circulating in the general population, it is very important to continue performing a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday and  today, we learned that two members of the Windermere Elementary School staff tested positive for COVID-19. Due to the nature of their positions, these individuals came into contact with a larger number of community members. Eight cohorts (classes) and several other individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine.

We also learned of an additional unrelated case at Windermere. In this case, an additional cohort (class) and a few other individuals will quarantine for 10 days.

It is important to note that although the number of people in quarantine is high,  the number of cases—three—is not, when compared with previous experience of the past five months.  Additionally, we do not suspect in-school transmission for these cases. 

The large number of individuals placed on quarantine is  consistent with our conservative approach to stop the line of transmission and keep our schools safe. It is not an indication that we suspect the virus has spread beyond these three cases. 

Following discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  Windermere will remain open in the five day per week model.

We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

We continue to ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a member of the Ellington High School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  less than twenty individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Ellington High School shall continue in the five-day per week learning model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

We continue to ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday, we learned that a member of the Windermere School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) plus and several additional individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. Windermere shall continue in the five-day per week learning model following the holiday weekend. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

We continue to ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Dear Ellington Family,

This weekend, we learned that a member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) plus and several additional individuals were placed in a 10-day quarantine. 

Additionally, we learned of positive cases in a member of the Ellington High Schools community. In this case,  less than 15 individuals will quarantine for a 10 day period.  

Both schools remain open in the 5-day per week model.

Although the district has seen several cases among its student and staff population during and since the winter break, these represent the first cases since our break where close contacts were identified in a school setting.  Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols, including case data, please visit our our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

We continue to ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a member of the Crystal Lake School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) plus and several additional individuals were placed in a 14-day quarantine. 

Yesterday, we learned of positive cases in a member of the Windermere School community and a member of the Ellington High School community. In those cases,  approximately 30 individuals will quarantine for a 14 day period.  

As previously announced, all schools will be remote for December 21st-23rd. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

As we move towards the holiday break, we encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that two members of the Windermere School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  two cohorts (classes) plus and several additional individuals were placed in a 14-day quarantine. Windermere Elementary will remain open in the five day per week model. 

Additionally, we learned of one student at Ellington High School who tested positive for COVID-19. In this case,  approximately 20 individuals will quarantine for a 14 day period. Ellington High School remains open in the five day per week model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

As we move towards the holiday break, we encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday evening, we learned a staff member with duties in multiple schools tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, l ess than 5 individuals were placed on a 14-day quarantine. They were contacted promptly and were not in school today.

Additionally, we received word today that one student at Ellington High School tested positive for COVID-19. In this case,  less than twenty additional members of the school community are now quarantining for the 14-day timeframe. 

All schools currently remain open in the five day per week model. 

As cases in the community and within schools have increased since Thanksgiving break, we continue to discuss what is going on in our schools with our partners at the local health department. The Connecticut Department of Public Health also continues to state that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.   We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community.  We encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday evening, we learned one member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one cohort (class) and a few staff were placed on quarantine.  They were contacted promptly and were not in school today. Center School remains open in the five day per week model. 

As cases in the community and within schools have increased since Thanksgiving break, we continue to discuss what is going on in our schools with our partners at the local health department. The Connecticut Department of Public Health also continues to state that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.   We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community.  We encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

New  guidance on quarantine issued by the CDC—reported as reducing the quarantine period—leaves the decision to change quarantine guidelines to local public health authorities based on local conditions.   Ellington Public Schools continues to follow current guidance (14 days) issued by the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. When new guidance is issued, we will update our protocols and procedures and communicate accordingly. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned one member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  quarantine was extended for one cohort and another cohort (class) was placed on a 14-day quarantine. Center School remains open in the five day per week model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public Health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

New  guidance on quarantine issued by the CDC—reported as reducing the quarantine period—leaves the decision to change quarantine guidelines to local public health authorities based on local conditions.  Ellington Public Schools continues to follow current guidance (14 days) issued by the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. When new guidance is issued, we will update our protocols and procedures and communicate accordingly. 

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community.  We continue to encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you  perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

This weekend and today, we learned that several members of the Ellington family tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share details for privacy reasons, it is clear in most of these cases that transmission likely occurred outside of the school setting, including over the Thanksgiving break. 

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community.  We continue to encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you  perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

At Ellington High School, three students and one staff member—u nrelated to each other—tested positive. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  less than 25 individuals were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Ellington High School remains open in the five day per week model. 

Additionally we learned two Center School students, who are related, and one Crystal Lake staff member also tested positive for COVID-19. In these cases,  quarantine was extended for one cohort and several others were placed on a 14 day quarantine. These schools remain open in the five day per week model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public Health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

New  guidance on quarantine issued by the CDC—reported as reducing the quarantine period—leaves the decision to change quarantine guidelines to local public health authorities based on local conditions.   Ellington Public Schools continues to follow current guidance (14 days) issued by the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. When new guidance is issued, we will update our protocols and procedures and communicate accordingly. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 
 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Windermere School community tested positive for COVID-19.  While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting. 

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health,  one class (cohort) and some staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Windermere School will remain open in the five day per week model. 

Additionally we learned two Center School students, within the same family, tested positive for COVID-19. Again, we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 within a school setting. In these cases,  two classes (cohorts) and staff were placed on a 14 day quarantine. The rest of Center School will remain open in the five day per week model. 

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case.  To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our  COVID-19 page. 

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community.  We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases. 

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community.  We continue to encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the  CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state  advisory for travel.

We also ask that you  perform a  daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results. 

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals. 

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a student who attends Ellington Middle School tested positive for COVID-19. We cannot share details for privacy reasons, but we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one class (cohort) and some staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington Middle School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Additionally we learned a member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. Again, we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 within a school setting. In this case, one class (cohort) and staff were placed on a 14 day quarantine. The rest of Center School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

It is important to keep vigilant as we move through December to the next holiday period in order to bring cases down in the community. We continue to encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and the state advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we received word that a member of the Center School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share details for privacy purposes, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one cohort (class) and some additional staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already.

Additionally, over the holiday break, we learned that one member of the Crystal Lake School community tested positive for COVID-19. Again, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting. In this case, less than 5 individuals were placed in a 14 day quarantine period.

Both schools will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

We hope you had a pleasant Thanksgiving break. It is important to keep vigilant as we move to the next holiday period to bring cases down in the community. We continue to encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Crystal Lake School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, less than ten people will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Crystal Lake School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

As we move towards the holiday break, we encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Crystal Lake School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Although the person was in school during the potential infectious period, our contact tracing revealed that no students or staff met the definition of a close contact. This was determined following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and using guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health. Crystal Lake Elementary will remain open in the five day per week model.

We also learned that two members of the Windermere School Community (unrelated) tested positive for COVID-19. We again have no reason to suspect the individuals contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

In these cases, two cohorts (classes) and some additional staff were placed on a 14 day quarantine. The rest of the Windermere School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

As we move towards the holiday break, we encourage all families to familiarize themselves and adhere to the CDC guidelines for holiday gatherings and state advisory for travel.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that one member of the Center Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one class (cohort) and some staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center Elementary School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a student at Center School tested positive for COVID-19. We cannot share details for privacy reasons, but we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, approximately 25 members of the school community were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a student at Center School tested positive for COVID-19. We cannot share details for privacy reasons, but we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, approximately 25 members of the school community were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Dear Ellington Family,

This morning, we learned that an Ellington High School staff member tested positive for COVID-19. We cannot share details for privacy reasons, but we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, less than 10 members of the school community were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington High School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned of multiple cases where a member of the school community tested positive. While we cannot share details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Two members of the same family tested positive for COVID-19, with contacts at both Ellington Middle School and Center School. In each case, less than 20 members at the respective school were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington Middle School and Center School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Additionally, one staff member at Ellington High School tested positive. In this case, less than 10 individuals were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington High School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help in reducing the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Last night, we learned that two Ellington High School students within the same family tested positive for COVID-19. Because of the timing of the information, Ellington High School participated in virtual learning for the scheduled half-day today, while the district completed its contact tracing process. We cannot share details for privacy reasons, but we have no reason to suspect transmission of COVID-19 took place in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, approximately 60 members of the school community were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington High School will remain open in the five day per week model, back tomorrow November 5th.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

The Connecticut Department of Public health has stated that schools are safe places where we don’t see widespread transmission taking place. The bulk of transmission events are happening at home or in the community. We continue to need your help to reduce the number of new cases.

The best way to get case numbers down is to practice mitigation strategies inside and outside of school. Take proper precautions: limit the size of social gatherings (especially indoors), continue to wear a mask , and maintain social distance.

We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a staff member within the Center Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one class (cohort) and a small number of staff were placed on a 14 day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center Elementary School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

We continue to ask for your assistance in keeping up best practices outside of school. We know that your efforts at home and in the community are what will help keep our schools safe. Proper precautions, including limiting the amount and size of social gatherings (especially indoors) and continuing to wear a mask and social distance, do make an impact. We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today, we learned that a staff member at Ellington High School tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect this person contract COVID-19 in a school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, less than five additional people were placed on a 14-day quarantine. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington High School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

Again, we continue to ask for your assistance in keeping up best practices outside of school. We know that your efforts at home and in the community are what will help keep our schools safe. Proper precautions, including limiting the amount and size of social gatherings (especially indoors) and continuing to wear a mask and social distance, do make an impact. We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

This weekend, we learned that an additional staff member within the Center Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, a few additional staff and students will quarantine for a 14 day period and a previous quarantine will be extended for staff and one class (cohort). Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center Elementary School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

We continue to ask for your assistance in keeping up best practices outside of school. We know that your efforts at home and in the community are what will help keep our schools safe. Proper precautions, including limiting the amount and size of social gatherings (especially indoors) and continuing to wear a mask and social distance, do make an impact. We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Brian Greenleaf
Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

We learned that one member of the Center Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, one class (cohort) and some staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Center Elementary School will remain open in the five day per week model.

Additionally, three students in other schools have been placed on quarantine after contact within a school setting with an employee of a contracted company.

Quarantining as a result of close contact with a case is not an indication that an individual has contracted the virus; it is a conservative way to break further transmission. We make our decisions cautiously, by understanding all factors of a specific case. To learn more about EPS’ contact tracing protocols please visit our website’s Frequently Asked Questions’ section on our COVID-19 page.

With cases coming from outside of school, we know that your efforts at home and in the community are what will help keep our schools safe. Practicing proper precautions, including limiting the amount and size of social gatherings (especially indoors) and continuing to wear a mask and social distance, do make an impact. We also ask that you perform a daily health screening with your children and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send your children to school if symptoms develop: a cold is not “just a cold” in the age of COVID. Individual responsibility yields collective results.

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for these individuals.

Brian Greenleaf

Director of Finance and Operations

Dear Ellington Family,

Today we learned that a member of the Windermere Elementary School community tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Under the District’s protocols, our school based teams responded appropriately to get the information needed to make the best decisions possible. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, two classes (cohorts) including some staff will quarantine for a 14 day period. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Windermere Elementary School will remain open in the five day per week model.

We continue to be encouraged by our local data, but also by state and national discussions among public health officials, that the safety mitigation measures, including cohorting, put in place by the district are working to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools.

Contact tracing and quarantining of close contacts is one of mitigation strategies recommended by the CDC and implemented by the district. Quarantining as a result of close contact tracing is not an indication that they have contracted the virus; it is simply a prudent and precautionary step.

To learn more about more about EPS’ COVID-19 positive test protocols please visit our website’s frequently asked questions’ section.

Connecticut, Tolland County, and Ellington enjoy relatively low community transmission rates that, according to the Department of Public Health, continue to favor in-person learning. However, we must remain vigilant to prevent a reversal of this trend.

The Ellington Public Schools are prepared to isolate and contain potential spread of the virus. It is important to note that each positive test for COVID-19 will be handled according to established health protocols, and the corresponding district response will be made on a case-by-case basis.

What we have learned during our first few weeks of school is that erring on the side of caution is one of the best mitigation strategies to prevent COVID-19 cases within our school community.

Your efforts outside of school, including performing a daily health screening and to be cautious deciding whether or not to send children to school if symptoms develop is critical to prevent cases within school.

The daily screening below should take place each day with your child prior to sending them to school. You may always contact our nursing staff if you have questions or concerns.

Daily Health Screening

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Dr. Scott V. Nicol, Superintendent

Dear Ellington Family,

Today we learned that a student contact associated with the high school case reported on Monday has also tested positive for COVID-19. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, based upon our contact tracing efforts and knowledge of the case, and in talking with the North Central District Health Department, transmission most likely took place outside of school.

Additional testing and contact tracing regarding this likely outside of school transmission event is in process and may result in further communications as early as this evening.

Our goal when cases do come up is to break the transmission chain. Although this case was properly quarantined following reports of the first case on Monday, our practice is to continue contact tracing and quarantine additional students, faculty, and staff as necessary. We have continued to refine those practices and protocols over the first month of school.

Contract tracing--to the extent possible--focuses on close contact with individuals during school and outside of school hours.

Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education and the State Department of Public Health, approximately forty students and staff are required to quarantine for 14 days. Those impacted have been contacted already.

The rest of Ellington High School, over 700 students, will continue to attend school under the five day full in-person model.

Quarantining as a result of close contact tracing is a key strategy designed to mitigate the spread of the virus. When an individual quarantines, it is not an indication that they have contracted the virus; it is simply a prudent and precautionary step.

Connecticut, Tolland County, and Ellington enjoy relatively low community transmission rates that, according to the Department of Public Health, continue to favor in-person learning. However, we must remain vigilant to prevent a reversal of this trend.

The Ellington Public Schools are prepared to isolate and contain potential spread of the virus. It is important to note that each positive test for COVID-19 will be handled according to established health protocols, and the corresponding district response will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Our best protection from broad transmission of COVID-19 within our schools starts with you. As part of the Ellington Family, you have a part to play in keeping everyone safe by performing a daily health screening. Families should err on the side of caution when deciding whether or not to send children to school if symptoms develop. This screening should happen each day with your child prior to sending them to school. You may always contact our nursing staff if you have questions or concerns.

Daily Health Screening

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a quick recovery for this individual.

Dr. Scott V. Nicol, Superintendent

Dear Ellington Family,

This evening we learned that members of one family, including one student at Ellington High School, reported testing positive for COVID-19.

Dear Ellington Family,

Yesterday, one staff member at Ellington Middle School reported testing positive for COVID-19. Fortunately this staff member is feeling well and we wish them a speedy recovery.

While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, this case is not tied to previous cases reported among the school population and we have no reason to suspect the individual contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

Again, one of the Ellington Public Schools’ key multi-layered mitigation strategies is to prepare for these contingencies and isolate and contain any spread. The district’s protocols were successfully implemented. Our school nursing staff and administrators responded appropriately and we have been in contact with the North Central District Health Department regarding this case.

Under the District’s protocols, we put in time and effort to get an understanding of the unique circumstances of each case. Following our discussions with the North Central District Health Department, and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, several students and staff—less than 10 individuals overall—were required to quarantine for 14 days. Those impacted have been contacted already. The rest of Ellington Middle School will remain open within the current hybrid operating model.

With over 3,000 members of our Ellington School Family, it continues to remain probable that cases will continue to occur within our community despite low community transmission rates in the state. The Ellington Public Schools are prepared for these situations. It is important to note that each positive test for COVID-19 will be handled according to established health protocols and the corresponding district response will be made on a case by case basis.

It is important to keep our school environments safe, and our families have a part to play in performing a daily health screening. Families should err on the side of caution when deciding whether or not to send children to school if symptoms develop. This screening should happen each day with your child prior to sending them to school. You may always contact our nursing staff if you have questions or concerns.

Daily Health Screening

As we move forward, please know that we will continue to improve upon our school district’s health practices and communicate all necessary information to the community.

Dr. Scott V. Nicol, Superintendent of Schools

Dear Ellington Family,

As we move through the school year, the school administration will provide timely communication to the Ellington Family regarding health and safety matters. Please know that we expected, as it was a statistical probability, that Ellington Public Schools’ staff and/or students would eventually test positive for COVID-19.

The Ellington Public Schools have been working closely with the North Central District Health Department on protocols in preparation for this situation. It is important to note that each positive test for COVID-19 will be handled according to established health protocols and the corresponding district response will be made on a case by case basis.

Today, we learned of several individuals from the same family who tested positive for COVID-19, two of whom are students at Ellington High School. While we cannot share full details for privacy reasons, we have no reason to suspect the individuals contracted COVID-19 in the school setting.

The district’s protocols were successfully implemented. Our school nursing staff and administrators responded appropriately and we have been in constant contact with the North Central District Health Department regarding this case.

Based on the particulars of this case, including the date of symptom onset, testing dates, and student schedules, and following lengthy conversations with the Health Department and guidance from the State Department of Education & State Department of Public Health, the high school will remain open in full.

We also want to take this moment to remind all of our families to review the daily health screening document below. It is preferred that families err on the side of caution when deciding whether or not to send children to school if symptoms develop. This screening should happen each day with your child prior to sending them to school. You may always contact our nursing staff if you have questions or concerns.

Daily Health Screening

Please keep your thoughts and prayers focused on a speedy recovery for this family.

Dr. Scott V. Nicol, Superintendent