Coronavirus 'No Significant Risk' To Framingham Schools: Tremblay

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham Superintendent Robert Tremblay sent a letter to parents on Thursday about the new coronavirus, COVID-19. Of note, the letter says that the novel virus does not yet pose a serious threat in Framingham — but officials are preparing just in case.

So far, the state Department of Public Health has said there are two "presumptive positive" cases of coronavirus in Massachusetts — that means a test indicates a positive infection, but it has not been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control. A UMass Boston student became the state's first confirmed case in early February. The two "presumptive" cases are in people who live in Norfolk and Plymouth counties.

Apart from that, just over 700 state residents have either completed or are still in self-quarantine, according to health officials.

Here's the full text of Tremblay's letter:

Dear Members of the Framingham Public Schools Community,

I write today with an update on Framingham Public Schools’ response concerning coronavirus (COVID-19).

First, it is important to emphasize that at this point there is no significant risk to the FPS community relative to COVID-19. Nonetheless, district leaders have convened discussions and planning for a coordinated response in the event that the risk to the community increases. District plans will be developed in accordance with the latest guidance from the Framingham Board of Health, MA Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

We recognize that reports of the impact of COVID-19 in the U.S. and around the world can be very troubling, especially for members of our community who are from or have friends and family in affected areas. Resources and support are available for students through school-based counseling services and for staff through the Mass4You EAP (844) 263-1982 (available 24/7).

You can access up-to-date information about COVID-19 on the MA DPH COVID -19 website. Moving forward, we will continue to communicate with you regularly as new information becomes available. In the meantime please review the following Frequently Asked Questions.

Best Regards,
Dr. Robert Tremblay
Superintendent of Schools