School committee bars nonessential visitors during school hours to limit exposures

On Jan. 6 the Blackstone‑Millville school committee approved a temporary policy restricting nonessential visitors from entering school buildings while students and staff are in session, a measure district leaders said is intended to limit potential COVID‑19 exposures and keep schools open.

Superintendent Jason DeFalco explained the restriction is meant to apply during the school day; evening activities such as youth basketball leagues and other student programs are not intended to be halted. "We were kind of cautious about how we were wording that ... we had put in during the day," DeFalco said, adding many school committee and subcommittee meetings can be held virtually.

Tara Larkin asked whether parents needing to attend IEP meetings would still be allowed in person; Matt Ehrenworth and Jason DeFalco said those meetings have been held virtually and essential business visits (inspectors, contractors) would still be managed and escorted at the front desk when necessary. DeFalco offered an example that an outside presenter, Carrie Purcell, would be rescheduled from January to February to avoid a daytime visit.

Tara Larkin moved to limit visitors during instructional hours and Tim Howell seconded; the motion passed on voice vote. Committee members noted exceptions for essential visits and student activities that occur outside school hours. The committee directed staff to revisit the restriction based on case trends and operational needs.