Middle School In Mercer Goes Remote After 'Dramatic Increase' In COVID

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — A middle school in Mercer County was forced to go remote for the week after a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Grice Middle School in Hamilton Township School District began virtual learning Tuesday after officials reported a “dramatic increase” in positive COVID-19 cases.

“The Hamilton Township School District is working closely with the Hamilton Division of Health and is following the policies and procedures the district developed in accordance with the updated CDC, State, and local health guidance to ensure the health and safety of everyone within our community,” district officials told parents in a letter on Monday.

The middle school will be remote through the week and will reopen Wednesday, June 1, after the Memorial Day weekend.

“The district is cleaning and disinfecting all exposed areas within the school. The School is also taking precautions to prevent the introduction and spread of viruses and other germs and is cleaning frequently touched surfaces daily,” officials said.

District officials have asked parents and guardians to remain “vigilant but sensible in your approach to dealing with this health concern.”

On Monday New Jersey reported 2,402 new COVID-19 cases and four coronavirus-related deaths. Mercer County reported 109 positive COVID-19 cases and 16 new probable cases as of Tuesday morning. The transmission rate statewide is 1.25. The COVID-19 activity level in Mercer County remains “high”.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.