Norwalk Public Schools Switches To All Remote Learning To Jan. 4

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk Public Schools will switch to full remote learning from Thursday to Jan. 4, as the district prepares for what is expected to be this winter's first major snow storm on Wednesday and Thursday, officials announced.

"As you may know, a major, early season snowstorm is likely to impact our area beginning late Wednesday," district officials wrote in a message to parents Monday. "As a result, to give families and staff time to plan in advance, Norwalk Public Schools will temporarily switch to full remote learning for all schools beginning Thursday, December 17. All schools and offices will return to in-person instruction on Monday, January 4."

The storm could dump as much as 11 inches of snow in parts of southern Connecticut, including Norwalk and other parts of lower Fairfield County, according to the National Weather Service.

"With the arrival of the expected storm, combined with a short holiday week and early dismissal next week, we believe this option will be the best way to provide consistency for families and staff," officials wrote. "By planning to return January 4, students and staff can make sure that they have all the necessary devices and materials with them at the end of the day Wednesday. School and office staff will be working remotely as well to make sure that classes and operations continue without interruption."

As of Monday, 11 Norwalk schools were closed and on remote learning schedules, district officials said, primarily due to coronavirus cases and a lack of available staff due to quarantines.

Additionally, the city reported 187 new coronavirus cases combined over the weekend, as Norwalk and the state continues to grapple with an increase in COVID-19 cases. Since the pandemic began in March, 5,505 Norwalk resident have contracted the virus.

"Norwalk Public Schools made a tough decision to move to full remote learning, but keeping students and staff healthy has to be the top priority," said Mayor Harry Rilling. "With cases continuing to rise, and staffing challenges across the district, hopefully this advanced announcement will provide some stability for our children and their families. I know it is not easy, but rest assured everyone is doing their best."