Coronavirus Wallingford: Public Schools Closing

WALLINGFORD, CT — Wallingford Public Schools will be closed from Friday, March 13 through Friday, March 27, Superintendent of Schools Salvatore Menzo announced Thursday evening. Menzo said the decision was made based on new information presented by Gov. Ned Lamont and the commissioner of education.

The closure includes all before school, after school, sporting events/practices, and extracurricular activities. It also includes adult education. Prior to reopening on March 30, all schools and busses will be “thoroughly cleaned,” Menzo said.

Regarding possibly taking away days from April vacation, Menzo said the Board of Education will hold a special meeting to discuss the school calendar at 6 p.m. on March 16 in the Board of Education Conference Room. Lamont issued an executive order Thursday waiving the state’s 180-day school year requirement. (To sign up for Wallingford breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

“We know that this is a stressful time for everyone,” Menzo said in an email to parents. “We also know that we have and will continue to take necessary precautions for student and staff safety. However, we must remember that the best way to combat the spreading or acquiring of any virus may be mitigated by being mindful of the following Center for Disease Control recommendations: Avoid close contact with people who are sick; Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and throw the tissue away in the trash; Avoid rubbing your eyes; Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects; Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; Stay home when you are sick, and expect to get medical care.”