Virus Forces Closure Of Taconic High School, Reid Middle School In Pittsfield

There were nearly 300 new cases of COVID-19 reported in The Berkshires yesterday according to The Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the highest single-day reported case count to date since the pandemic's start.

Due to the latest surge in cases, staffing levels within Pittsfield Public Schools have forced last-minute closures of two schools, something Superintendent Jospeh Curtis warned might happen. Below is an excerpt from Curtis' email that was sent Wednesday evening just after 9 p.m.

First, let me apologize for this late message as we just received final approval from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  I am sending this message to our entire school district to ensure that each one of you receives accurate information.

Due to staffing levels,  we have had to make the very difficult decision to close Taconic High School and Reid Middle School on Thursday, January 6 and Friday, January 7, 2022.  These days are technically counted as snow or weather days and will have to be made up at the end of the school year.  Staff that normally do not report to school on a snow or weather day will not report to Taconic High School and Reid Middle School this Thursday or Friday. 

We anticipate being ready to open on Monday, January 10. A communication update will be sent to all Taconic and Reid family and staff members Sunday evening.

Once again, I apologize for the late interruption as this could not be helped despite our best efforts.

Joseph Curtis

Superintendent of the Pittsfield Public Schools