Brookline Schools Enforce New Rules To Mitigate Spread Of COVID

BROOKLINE, MA — The Public Schools of Brookline has released a list of new measures that will be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 amidst the Omicron variant outbreak.

The new rules come after Brookline schools closed suddenly Monday due to staffing shortages related to COVID-19. Students were able to return to in-person classes on Tuesday.

"I want to thank you again for your continued flexibility, support, and patience over the past few days,” said Superintendent Linus Guillory in a letter to families. "Unforeseen obstacles, crises, and challenges will always emerge in any school year, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated opportunities for the unexpected.”

"Nevertheless, I want to reiterate PSB’s commitment to keeping schools open for in-person learning,” he continued. "We expect buildings to remain open and we will continue to facilitate an environment that allows all of us to consistently attend school in a safe and healthy manner.”

As of Jan. 4, all Brookline public schools will use the following guidelines to help stop the spread of the virus:

• Wherever possible, large meetings with staff will be held virtually. This includes clubs, faculty meetings, professional development, and any other large group meetings currently scheduled for January in which staff would typically gather in person.
• During lunches, students may only have their masks off only while actively eating. Staff will also enforce as much physical distancing between students as possible. Additionally, ventilation - either through the portable HVAC units in our buildings or through open windows - should be maintained at all times during large student gatherings. Students will also be encouraged to eat outside whenever possible.
• Only PSB employees, students, and visitors considered educationally essential will be permitted in school buildings.
• Depending on the venue, athletic events and other performances will either have no spectators or be restricted to parents/guardians only. Athletic Directors, Performing Arts Staff, and School Leaders will communicate specific details regarding outside participation in the days leading up to each event or performance.

"We are still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and the guidance above will change over time,” said Guillory. "Nevertheless, we must acknowledge how far we have come as a community. As we continue building relationships with one another and practicing a culture of care, I am confident that we will overcome any obstacles that are presented. I look forward to great things happening in 2022."