January 8, 2022, 3:00 P.M. EST, Brunswick High School Remote Instruction
Dear Staff, Students, and Parents,
It is with enormous regret that I have to inform you the COVID-19 post-December break surge has proven too much. As a result, we must pause all in-person instruction at Brunswick High School. While the case counts at our three other schools are high, the fact is our staff, specifically our BHS health services team, has tried valiantly to support each and every student and staff member, but the situation is untenable.
Therefore, after consultation with the Brunswick School Department (BSD) COVID-19 Health Team members, school administrators, and the Brunswick School Board, there will be no in-person instruction at Brunswick High School next week. Monday, January 10, will be a non-instructional day for students, and staff will report to work to prepare for remote instruction. Remote learning will occur from Tuesday, January 11, through Friday, January 14. Also, all in-person co-curricular activities are paused starting Monday, January 10, 2022. We anticipate in-person learning and in-person co-curricular activities to resume on Tuesday, January 18.
The BSD will continue to monitor the situation in conjunction with the Maine CDC. If there are any changes, you will be updated.
We know in-person instruction is ideal for students. However, given the significant number of positive COVID-19 staff and students as well as the increased number of staff absences, it is best to provide synchronous direct instruction and asynchronous learning opportunities for our students. I also recognize how this decision may impact students already preparing for mid-terms; please know, we are working on student-centered solutions, so expect further communication from Principal Henninger.
I believe this decision is in the best interest of our students, staff, and community. Therefore, I urge all students and staff to get vaccinated and sign up for our pooled testing program. Directions for enrolling in pooled testing can be found here.
Stay safe, and thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Phillip J. Potenziano, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools