Pat-Med Schools Takes Preventative Measures Against Coronavirus

PATCHOGUE-MEDFORD, NY — In light of the coronavirus outbreak on Long Island, the Patchogue-Medford school district is taking action and preventative steps against the spread of the disease. While no cases have been confirmed in the Patchogue-Medford area, there have been a total of 20 cases across Suffolk County as of Thursday. The pandemic has result in school closures, event cancellations and venue shut-downs across the country.

As a result, in a letter to the community, Superintendent Donna Jones, announced district officials have taken the following actions:

• Canceling the use of all facilities by outside organizations through April 30.
• Postponing music events, including practices and shows through April 30.
• Canceling all evening events through April 30.
• Canceling all athletic activities, including games and practices, through April 30.
• Canceling all field trips through April 30.

In addition, while schools will remain open for the time being, the district has prepared grade level packets for students in grades K-12. The packages will be sent home with students shortly and will be available online in order to ensure continuity of instruction should the district have to close.

"We will continue to do everything possible to keep our buildings clean and sanitized," Jones wrote in the letter. "We are terribly saddened to have to make these decisions. However, the safety of all students, staff and the entire Patchogue-Medford community is of utmost importance. Should anything change relative to the pandemic alert, we will most certainly keep you updated."

The school district also stated that the SAT Exam scheduled to be held at Patchogue-Medford High School this Saturday has been postponed until Saturday, March 28. Students scheduled to report on March 14 should now report on March 28.