Number of quarantined students drops as state changes "close contact" definition from 6ft to 3ft

The number of students quarantined for "in school" exposure spiked earlier this month to 116 when middle and high school students returned to full time in person learning, but has since tumbled to only 6 as the state changed the definition of "close contact".

Under the prior standard which was in effect the week of April 12th a "close contact" with a confirmed case within 6 feet for 15 minutes or longer within a twenty-four period would result in a quarantined student. Over school vacation state has reduced the number of feet to within 3 feet.

The CDC standard remains at 6 feet and the new 3 foot Commonwealth of Massachusetts standard varies from CDC guidance.

Overall virus cases in the school district are down slightly. Students returned from April vacation yesterday.

Ten students have active virus cases, down from 17 the week before (2 from in school exposure) , with 2 employee cases (1 from in school exposure).