Hamden Schools Switch To Remote Learning Due To Extreme Cold

HAMDEN, CT — All Hamden Public Schools will operate remotely on Friday, Jan. 29, due to the extreme cold temperatures and wind chill in the forecast, officials announced Thursday.

“The extreme cold conditions are expected to impact our school ventilation systems, which conform to CDC guidelines to mitigate Covid-19 spread, and will not allow us to heat our schools to appropriate levels,” officials wrote in a post on the school district’s website.

“Please also keep an eye on weather updates over the weekend, as there is stormy weather on the horizon, which may cause us to extend this remote learning period into the early part of next week.”

Mayor Curt Balzano Leng is also advising all Hamden residents to “take mindful precautions for themselves, their families, and their homes, as temperatures are expected to drop to the single digits or lower (with wind chill) in the coming days.”

Gov. Ned Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol through 12 noon on Sunday, Jan. 31.

“Accordingly, the Hamden Overnight Winter Warming Center operated by Columbus House, Inc. at Breakthrough Church will offer extended daytime hours during the activation of the severe cold weather protocol,” reads a news release from the mayor’s office. “The Warming Center will open on Thursday (1/28) night at 7:00pm and stay open until Monday (2/1) morning at 7:00am. The Warming Center is located at Breakthrough Church, 481 Shelton Avenue. The entrance to the Warming Center is in the rear of the building on Butler Street. Additionally, to obtain information regarding State warming centers, please call 211 or visit www.211ct.org.

“Residents are reminded to ensure that all of their electronic devices remain charged for required communications and entertainment during the cold-weather spell. Be mindful, and ensure that all household doors, windows and vents are properly closed to prevent drafts. However, in event that you are sheltering with individuals outside of your immediate household, make every effort to ensure that proper social distancing is adhered to and that ventilation with fresh air can occur. If you have an elderly, disabled or infirm neighbor, please take a moment to check in on them and ensure that they are safe. As always, if you see any person in distress or requiring emergency assistance please do not hesitate to call 911.”

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