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2020 - Letters from the Superintendent » 2020 - November

2020 - November

 
 
 
                                                                                                                       Nov. 30, 2020,  3:45 PM
 
Good Afternoon Milford Community:
 
I hope you all had a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving with family. I am writing because we recieved information today that two students at Milford High School have tested positive for Covid-19.  The students were last in the building on 11/23.  Contact tracing has been initiated, and close contacts have been identified. 
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact individuals under 18, or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here. 
 
Please continue to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19.  Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support. 
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf). If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you.  
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure.  
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 

 

                                                                                                                       Nov. 24, 2020,  5:16 PM
 
Good Evening Milford Community:
 
I want to again wish everyone a safe, healthy, and family-filled Thanksgiving holiday. I hope you find some rest, and special time filled with wonderful memory making moments. I am also writing to let you know that late this afternoon we were informed of another positive case of Covid-19 at the Heron Pond school.  The individual was last in the building on 11/23/20.  We have begun the process of contact tracing and will be in contact with anyone identified as a close contact this evening.  The building is closed for the holiday break and will be cleaned at this time.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
Please be safe over the holidays and follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19.  We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support.
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf).
 
If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you. Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure. 
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                     Nov. 23, 2020,  10:30 AM
 
Good Morning Milford Community:
 
I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you, and your families a Happy Thanksgiving. The month of November across the District, our theme has been one of gratitude. We have so much to be grateful for despite the extraordinary circumstances we have faced as a community during this pandemic. I am incredibly grateful for the amazing Educators, Paraprofessionals, Maintenance, Food Service, Classified, Support Staff, and our stellar Administrative Team that has continued to work tirelessly for the children and families of Milford this entire first quarter. This holiday season will certainly be different for many, however it is my hope that the time you have with loved ones is filled with great food, love, and the opportunity to connect in person or as our new reality has dictated, remotely.
 
I also wanted to share with you that we had a family in our School Community lose their home Friday night to a devastating fire. A GO FUND ME has been set up to support them during this time. If you are interested in making a donation, and helping them through the holiday season, please click on this link, and it will take you there. https://gf.me/u/y9q28p
 
In speaking with the family yesterday, they are also in need of pillows, blankets, gift cards for food and clothing, etc. If you would like to donate those things, please feel free to drop those off at the SAU office which is located at the back of the High School.
 
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support. Please stay safe and healthy.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                              Nov. 20, 2020,  12:46 PM


Good Afternoon Milford Community,
 
It came to our attention a short while ago that we have another positive Covid-19 case at both Heron Pond Elementary and Milford Middle School.  At Heron Pond, the last time the individual was in school was Nov. 13th. Contact Tracing has been done, and it has been determined that there are no close contacts at Heron Pond. At the middle school, the individual was last in the building on Tuesday, Nov. 17th. Contact tracing is underway, and after consulting with local health officials, out of an abundance of caution it has been determined that Milford Middle School will shift to remote learning on Monday, Nov. 23 and Tuesday, Nov. 24. A deep clean of the building will take place over the weekend. Any further information will be sent to families by the building Administrator. 
 
To be clear, at this time, Heron Pond Elementary School will remain open next week, while Milford Middle School will close to students and enter into the remote learning model for hybrid students on Nov. 23 and Nov. 24.  
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
Community spread is a serious reality across New Hampshire. We are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19, including the Governor's new Mask Mandate. Schools are not the source of spreading, and we are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Therefore, please continue to be vigilant in practicing proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home, and inform your building Principal. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support.
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf). If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you. 
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure. 
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                          Nov. 20, 2020,  11:26 AM


Good Morning Milford Community,
 
It came to our attention this morning that we have another positive Covid-19 case at Milford High School. The last time the individual was in school was Nov. 13th. Contact Tracing has been done, and it has been determined that there are no close contacts at the High School. We do have individuals connected to our school community quarantining due to close contact outside of school. In light of this information, it has been determined that there is no reason to close the building. A deep clean of the building will take place over the weekend. Any further information will be sent to families by the building administrator.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
Community spread is a serious reality across New Hampshire. We are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19, including the Governor's new Mask Mandate. Schools are not the source of spreading, and we are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Therefore, please continue to be vigilant in practicing proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks. Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home, and inform your building Principal. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions. Thank you in advance for your support.
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you.
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure.
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please:
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                           Nov. 19, 2020,  3:50 PM


Good Afternoon Milford Community,
 
It came to our attention this afternoon that we have another positive Covid-19 case. This case is at the Bales School. The last time the individual was in school was Nov. 16th. Contact Tracing has been done, and due to the number of close contacts, we will be remote at the Bales Building through Dec.4. Students and staff will return to the Bales Building for in-person instruction on Dec. 7th. A deep clean of the building will take place tonight. Any further information will be sent to families by the building administrator.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
As I shared with the community last week, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19. We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks. Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions. Thank you in advance for your support.
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you.
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure.
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please:
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                           Nov. 17, 2020,  3:43 PM


Good Afternoon Milford Community,
 
It came to our attention this afternoon that we have another positive Covid-19 case. This case is at Milford Middle School. The last time the individual was in school was Nov. 17th. Contact Tracing is currently being done. Since tomorrow is a WIN Wednesday, the School will be closed to Students. The building will be open to staff who will be preparing for our remote launch after the Thanksgiving Holiday. A deep clean of the building will take place tonight. We have spoken with Captain Jason Smedick, and Chief Flaherty and they agree with this assessment. Any further information will be sent to families by the building Principal.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these only those individuals under 18, or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
As I shared with the community last week, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19.  We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  Please, if you or your child is showing symptoms, stay home. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your adherence to the health guidelines we have outlined, support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support.
 
Again, if you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf). If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you. 
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure. 
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

 

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                        Nov. 17, 2020,  7:55 AM
 
Dear Milford Community:
 
We are only a little over a week away from Thanksgiving, and we have a lot to be grateful for. Our Educators, Administrators, and Staff have been hard at work this semester amidst tremendous circumstances to continue to provide a high quality education to each and every child in Milford. Our community has shown tremendous resilience and collaboration, which is truly inspiring in these times. 
 
I’m writing with some important information today. Last evening, the Milford School Board supported the Administration’s recommendation to move into a fully remote model for the Holiday Season. This will be from Nov. 30th to January 18th. Many things were taken into account in making this decision. Chief amongst these considerations was staffing, quarantining rules, the rise in Covid-19 numbers, and travel over the holidays. With these factors in play, we felt that the consistency and quality of the delivery of teaching and learning in the hybrid model would be compromised, and the fully remote model would be more beneficial to students, families, and staff at this time. Critical needs students will continue to receive in person instruction in the buildings, and Wednesdays will provide families and students with office hours to connect with teachers, and additional in-person support for students. Teachers will begin preparing this week for a remote launch on Nov. 30th, and more information will be forthcoming from your building Principals. 
 
Additionally, the 2021-2022 School Year Budget was presented to the Milford School Board and Budget Advisory Committee last night. It has been posted on our website at https://4.files.edl.io/1223/11/17/20/114145-4dbd0f89-0181-4850-aab1-ad6cc02d88f0.pdf
 
I want to thank our Business Administrator, Jane Fortson for all of her work on the budget this year, our Administrative Team, and our SAU staff for the incredible hours, nights, and weekends to pull this document together. It’s an impressive piece of work, outlining many accomplishments and new programs, that will continue to move the Milford School District Forward. Thank you to everyone for the continued understanding, patience, and flexibility during these incredible times.
 
We are so lucky and grateful to have such a supportive community behind us.
 
Be safe, healthy, and have a wonderful Holiday.

Best Regards,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga 
 
 
 
 
 

                                                                                                                         Nov. 16, 2020,  10:21 AM

 

Good Morning Milford Community:
 

It came to our attention this morning that we have another positive Covid-19 case at Milford High School. The last time the individual was in school was Thursday, Nov. 12th. Contact Tracing has been done, and at this time the Principal has reported that there are no close contacts that we know of. Therefore, we do not feel it necessary to close the building tomorrow because of the time lapse to when the student was last in school, the lack of close contacts, and the cleaning that has been done since. A deep clean of those classrooms specifically will be done tonight. I have spoken with Captain Jason Smedick, and Chief Flaherty and they agree with this assessment. Any further information will be sent to families by the building Principal.

NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 15 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.

As I shared with the community last week, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19.  We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support.

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf). If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you. 

Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure. 

The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing. 
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well. 
 

Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 

                                                                                                                         Nov. 11, 2020,  2:13 PM

 

Good Afternoon Milford Community:
 
Happy Veterans Day Everyone. I’m writing because this afternoon we were informed of a confirmed case of COVID-19 at the Jacques Memorial School. We have no evidence at this time that the infection occurred at school. I have spoken with Jason Smedick and Chief Flaherty, and we are in the process of gathering more information. The last time this individual was in the building was 11/10.
 
Per our reopening plan, on Page 28, tomorrow we would normally have a remote day at Jacques Memorial School, and re-assess. However, out of an abundance of caution, and due to the rising numbers in Hillsborough County, we are going to go remote at the Jacques Memorial school for 2 weeks. JMS will reopen on Monday, Nov. 30. Staff will be working remotely during this time. A deep clean of the building will occur. Further information will be sent to families by the building Principal.
 
Our systems and processes continue to work extremely well. We will continue to take a conservative and proactive approach to this predicament, and it has served us well.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 15 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
As I shared with the community last week, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to continue to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19. We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks. We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions. Thank you in advance for your support.
 
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you.
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure.
 
The safety of our children, employees, and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. 
 
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, please continue to take the following precautions to prevent the spread of the disease: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.
 
Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.
 
Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

                                                                                                                         Nov. 10, 2020,  9:02 AM

 

Good Morning Milford Community:
 
It’s hard to believe that we are just a couple weeks away from Thanksgiving, and the Holiday Season is right around the corner. I want to wish all the families of Milford a safe, healthy, and happy time despite all that we have faced in 2020. I also want to say a HUGE Congratulations to our Varsity Girls soccer team who finished their season undefeated, and are the Division II State Champs! Tomorrow, in observance of Veterans Day, all Schools are closed. Please enjoy your day with family.
 
This is just a friendly reminder that per the DHHS, that any families traveling internationally (including Canada), on a cruise ship, or domestically outside of Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Rhode Island must quarantine for 14 days after return (regardless of mode of transportation). Please let your building Principals know if you do have the intent to travel so proper arrangements can be made to support your student(s) upon your return.
 
We are asking families to continue reporting to the school any sign/symptoms of illness in their child or children, even during remote times. This information is essential in determining who is safe to be in the building and in keeping the spread of illness down. Please report any of the following signs/symptoms:
 
    • Fever or chills
    • Cough
    • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • Sore throat
    • Runny nose or nasal congestion
    • Muscle or body aches
    • Fatigue
    • Headache
    • New loss of taste or smell
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Diarrhea
 
Recently, we have seen an uptick in Covid-19 cases across the State of New Hampshire which of course is concerning, but not unexpected. As of yesterday, the rest of Hillsborough County averaged 133.5 new cases per 100 K over the last 14 days. The hospitalization rate is at 5/Per 100K over 14 days and the positivity rate is at 2.3% over 7 days.

Milford currently has 22 active cases. If you look at the attached matrix from the State of NH we are, from a public health standpoint, continue to be fine using the hybrid model. We have no evidence as of yet that any transmission or spread has happened from within our schools. This is a testament to the hard work of ALL of our staff, and we are grateful. Our goal is to maintain in-person learning for as long as we can, given it is safe and we have the staffing to do so. 

Our leadership team continues to monitor the data from State Health, in collaboration with our local health officials, to ensure we can pick up any trends that could indicate the need to go to a full remote model, but again as of today, there is no need to from health perspective.
 
As the circumstances continue to change on a daily basis, I want to again reiterate how appreciative we all are with the patience, understanding, and flexibility the community has show during these unprecedented times.
 
The safety of our children, employees, and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces. 
 
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, please continue to take the following precautions to prevent the spread of the disease: 
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.
 
With more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19. We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Thank you in advance for your support, and have a wonderful rest of your week!
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
 

                                                                                                                                       Nov. 5, 2020,  10:11 AM

 

Good Morning,
 
Today we received word of another positive case of Covid-19 at Milford High School. Last week, this individual was deemed a close contact to another student who tested positive, through an outside of school interaction. We immediately put this person on quarantine, and proactively did contact tracing on 11/2. The contact tracing resulted in putting a small number of students and a teacher on quarantine.  While quarantining as a close contact, the individual developed Covid-19 symptoms.  The individual has not been in the building since 10/29. The building was deep cleaned on 11/2.
 
Our systems and processes continue to work extremely well. We have taken a conservative and proactive approach to this predicament and it has served us well. 
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
As I shared with the community last week, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19.  We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. Please continue to practice proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks.  We want to minimize the risk of spread as much as possible and we ask for your support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions.  Thank you in advance for your support.
 
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 test. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state (https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf). If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you. 
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure. The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces.
 
In addition, to prevent further spread of the disease in our community, please: 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.
 
Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found here.

Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                Nov. 2, 2020,  9:28 AM
 
Dear Milford Families:
 
This morning we were informed of a positive Covid-19 Case at Milford High School. We are actively working with and following guidelines from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). We are also working closely with our local health officials, and after discussions this morning, we feel it is both safe and best to finish the school day today. High School students will be dismissed at regular time, and a deep clean of the building will take place late this afternoon and tonight in preparation for Voting that will take place at the High School tomorrow. Due to the deep clean, the Board Meeting scheduled for this evening has been rescheduled to Tuesday, November 10th. Further information will be sent to families from the School Principal.
 
NH DHHS has requested we provide contact information for anyone who has been identified as having had close contact (within 6 feet for a total of 10 cumulative minutes or more, beginning 2 days prior to first illness onset or collection of positive test, whichever is earlier) with the infected person. NH DHHS will contact these individuals or their parent/guardian and will instruct them how to self-quarantine at home. Those families and staff will be directed to get tested and keep themselves or their children quarantined until 14 days following their last possible exposure. A guide for self-quarantine can be found here.
 
As I shared with the community on Wednesday, with more cases occurring, we are asking families to follow the state guidelines for prevention of spreading COVID-19. We are doing everything that we can in our schools to keep your children and staff members safe by enforcing several health and safety precautions as outlined by NHDHHS and CDC. However, we have received concerns from community members that outside of school, students are not following health protocols such as proper physical distancing and the wearing of masks. We want to minimize those risks as much as possible and we ask for your support in educating your children the importance of following proper health precautions. Thank you in advance for your support.
 
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, chills, respiratory illness, aches or change in taste and smell, please stay home and away from others and get a COVID-19 PCR test. If your child is experiencing symptoms, you should alert their provider that they were possibly exposed to a positive COVID case before going into the practice. You may also choose to seek out testing from your healthcare provider or at one of the testing sites located throughout the state https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs/cdcs/covid19/documents/covid-testing-options.pdf If you choose either of those options, you should bring this letter with you.
 
Please note that if you or your child are currently quarantined, you must complete quarantine, even if your test is negative. This is because the maximum amount of time from being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 and testing positive is 14 days. Therefore, even if your child tests negative today, they would need to quarantine until they reach the 14th day following exposure.
 
The safety of our children, employees and visitors is our top priority. To ensure your health and safety, we have been following CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting for our high-traffic areas and frequently touched surfaces.
 
Because COVID-19 is most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, we should all take the following precautions to prevent the spread of the disease:
 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid close contact with others. When outside your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. This is known as social distancing.
  • Wear a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose to protect others when in public areas.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home if you have a fever or are not feeling well.
 
Children may worry about themselves, their family and friends getting sick with COVID-19. Tips for talking to children about COVID-19 can be found HERE.
 
To learn more about COVID-19, please check these trusted resources:
 
Please stay safe and healthy,
Dr. Jessica Huizenga