Bridgewater-Raritan Schools To Go Virtual Then Half Days Due To COVID Surge

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District will start the new year remotely then switch to half days due to an increase in statewide cases of COVID-19.

"Unfortunately, rising cases have necessitated the adjustment of school schedules that will support the safety and well-being of the entire school community," said Superintendent Robert Beers late Thursday in a letter to the community. "This decision was not an easy one as our district is attempting to balance the instructional needs of our students with the explosive rise in COVID-19 cases."

Monday, Jan. 3rd will be a virtual learning day. There will be no in-person learning taking place on Monday.

Then starting Tuesday, Jan. 4, the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District will move to an early dismissal schedule for the remainder of the week. Lunch will not be served on the early dismissal days so that students can remain masked.

"Please note these measures are temporary and will assist in providing continuity of instruction," said Beers.

Beers also asked that parents and guardians continue to monitor their children’s health and not send students into school who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

If a student tested positive or is a close contact with someone who tested positive over break, parents are asked to contact the school nurse or principal if they have not already done so.

"Attention to these details will allow the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District to continue providing the high-quality, in-person instruction our students need," said Beers.

As of Thursday, Bridgewater reported 172 new positive cases and a total of 548 since Dec. 24.

New Jersey also reported another record-breaking day on Thursday with 27,975 positive cases and 34 deaths in a single day. Somerset County reported 963 cases and 0 deaths in total.

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