-
Current Learning Model:
The following Lowell Public Schools students return to in-person learning on Monday, March 1, 2021 - students who are not in a substantially separate special education program, but were previously served in-person this fall as part of our original school reopening plan.
Students in substantially separate special education programs who were previously participating in our in-person learning model (those students who were still attending in-person instruction in December) returned on campus Monday, February 22, 2021.
All other LPS students are still taking part in remote learning.
Plan for students returning on campus:
The School Committee, after consultation with the Board of Health, set the following target dates for returning students to in-person learning, provided the COVID-19 data can improve between now and then (please note that the School Committee voted to push back the first of the targeted dates from February 1 to February 22):
- ✓ February 22 - Students in substantially separate special education programs who were previously participating in our in-person learning model
- ✓ March 1 - Students who are not in a substantially separate special education program, but were previously served in-person this fall as part of our original school reopening plan.
- April 1 - Expansion of our in-person learning model to include additional students beyond those who were assigned to in-person learning at the beginning of this school year
The latest trends in the COVID-19 data here in Lowell allow us to meet our target of returning the first group of students to in-person instruction on February 22. The next group of students will return to in-person learning on March 1. We will continue to provide you with any updates as we look at our learning plan going forward.COVID Data Monitoring
Updated - 3/5/21
- 2/26/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 2/19/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 2/12/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 2/5/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 1/29/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 1/22/21 COVID Data Monitoring
- 1/20/21 COVID Data Monitoring
COVID-19 Testing Program
As part of the reopening process, we will be offering voluntary free weekly COVID-19 testing. This testing will lower the risk of spread of COVID-19 by helping to identify those positive cases in people who do not show any symptoms of COVID-19. In order to participate, parents/guardians will have to sign a consent form for their child. Click here for the consent form.
This COVID-19 test is quick, easy and it does not hurt. It is a nasal test that gently swabs the lower inner nostril. We will accommodate all students’ needs to help them be comfortable during the test.
The test is free. You do not need to pay for the test or have insurance to get the test.
The more students and staff who participate, the safer our schools will be. Please click here to read more about this testing program.
COVID - 19 Vaccine
Massachusetts is currently in Phase 2 of its COVID-19 vaccine rollout. As of publication, the following groups are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine: everyone in Phase 1; individuals 75 and older; individuals 65 and older; residents and staff of affordable senior housing; people with 2+ medical conditions. Those accompanying residents 75 and older to vaccine appointments (at the mass vaccination sites) can also get a shot. Early education and K-12 workers are currently slated to be eligible for vaccination later in Phase 2. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit the state’s website.
For more information:
- Massachusetts DPH: Where and when you can get your vaccine
- Trust the Facts. Get the Vax
- Center for Disease Control (CDC): Facts about COVID-19 and the vaccine
- Lowell Community Health Center: For patients of the health center
- Lowell General Hospital: For patients of the hospital
- When can I get the COVID Vaccine
- Frequently asked questions
- Know What is True and False About the COVID-19 Vaccines
COVID Protocols and Guidelines
- Potential COVID Symptoms
- Face Mask Protocol and Guidelines
- Quarantine Guidelines
- Isolation and Quarantine Resources
- Information and Guidance for Persons in Quarantine Translated in Multiple Languages
Where can you get tested for COVID
Who to contact when COVID positive or a close contact
- Who to contact for LPS employees
- Who to contact for LPS supervisors and principals
- Charts on who to contact for families and staff
Important Update About Flu Vaccinations
-
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is removing the requirement for flu vaccination for attendance in childcare/preschool, primary, secondary and postsecondary education. Preliminary data show that this has been a mild flu season to date, presumably as people have received their seasonal flu vaccine and have been adhering to mask-wearing and social distancing due to COVID-19. Given the intensive Commonwealth-wide efforts regarding COVID-19 vaccination, DPH wants to alleviate the burden to obtain flu vaccination and focus on continuing our COVID -19 vaccination efforts. DPH continues to strongly recommend that everyone age six months and older receive their seasonal flu vaccine each year.
City of Lowell COVID updates
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
- Commonwealth of Mass COVID - 19 Travel Order
- COVID Information and Resources
- Commissioner Weekly Updates
- Guidance updates to reflect Phase 3, Step 1: Youth and Adult Amateur Sports and Activities/ Outdoor Recreational Activities
Center for Disease Control COVID - 19 Guidelines and information
