PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. — Earlier today, Prince George’s County Public Schools(PGCPS) announced that three school would be closing temporarily due to an increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases.
The three schools include Benjamin Tasker Middle School(BTMS), EXCEL Academy Public Charter School and Kettering Middle School. All three schools will remain closed until January 3.
The following message was sent out to the families of BTMS this afternoon:
“Good Afternoon Benjamin Tasker Middle School Families,
Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) has received guidance from the Prince George’s County Health Department that based on an increased number of confirmed cases of COVID-19, the safest path forward is to temporarily close Benjamin Tasker Middle School to prevent further spread. We expect this closure to remain in place and the building will reopen January 3, 2022.
While I know this is disappointing news, please know that we have planned for continuous instruction. All students will log onto the virtual platforms for each class and/or attend asynchronous learning.
The primary symptoms of COVID-19 include shortness of breath, coughing, and fever or chills. Other symptoms include congestion, sore throat, diarrhea, abdominal pain, body aches, and loss of taste or smell. Prior to returning to in-person, if your student begins to experience symptoms, please keep them at home, consult a healthcare provider, and notify the school office.
We continue to follow strict protocols aligned with expert health guidance to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect students’ health. Additionally, the Department of Building services will collaborate with the school maintenance team to ensure appropriate cleaning and sanitation occurs in alignment with COVID protocols. We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of wearing masks, getting vaccinated when eligible, social distancing as appropriate and washing your hands.”
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com