Governor Ned Lamont stopped by Bethel Tuesday afternoon.  He spoke with First Selectman Matt Knickerbocker, school administrators and teachers at Bethel High School to see firsthand how they are preparing to bring students back safely. 

He also got a chance to hear from students, stopping a tour group for freshman orientation, led by seniors.  Lamont says he was met with extraordinary enthusiasm as the Wildcats prepare for their first day back to school on September 9th.

(Photo: Gov Lamont)

He says the kids were isolated at home during distance learning and the students he met seemed excited to get back into the classroom.  Bethel has 6 tents ready to go to take advantage of warm weather in September and October to start the new year with a hybrid model of in person and distance learning. Lamont says being outdoors, kids will be able to get mask breaks.

Lamont learned about the summer school program, which included about 100 kids of all ages.  He says it worked well, and young children and students with disabilities were wearing masks.  Lamont noted that this should give teachers, parents and kids confidence for the new school year.

Bethel's Emergency Management team also met with Governor Lamont.  They discussed the storm response and restoration work by Eversource. 

Emergency managers say the Governor was pleased by the preparation by the schools and the enthusiasm by the students to return to the classroom.