Coronavirus: Danbury Schools Will Reopen With Remote Learning

DANBURY, CT — Danbury Public Schools has pivoted from its original reopening plan and will start the school year this fall with distance learning for all students.

Superintendent Sal Pascarella said he made the decision Monday after consulting with state Education Commissioner Miguel A. Cardona, Mayor Mark Boughton, the school district's administrative leadership team and local health officials.

The decision came three days after the state Department of Public Health issued a COVID-19 alert for Danbury after a significant increase in cases in the last two weeks.

Pascarella posted a letter to parents, students and staff on social media.

"I can appreciate that this decision impacts so many of you in a variety of ways," Pascarella said. "Please know we are all eager to see your children on September 8 in Distance Learning."

The city planned on opening under a hybrid model that split daily attendance between remote learners and in-school students.

The superintendent said he will revisit the issue Oct. 1 and determine which learning model is best.

"In the meantime, we are working with EdAdvance (State Regional Education Service Center) to set up full-day childcare programming during the duration of this Distance Learning time period," he said.

Parents who want to add their child's name to the waiting list for this program should call 203-797-4733.

"I look forward to coming back to you with more information as it is available, as we strive to bring students the best possible educational experience in as safe a manner as possible for our whole community," Pascarella said.