A program that allowed certain students to remain in the classroom even after being exposed to COVID-19 is temporarily ending in Brookfield and New Milford.  The Screen and Stay program was for students who were vaccinated, asymptomatic and wearing a mask but identified in close contact with another student who had a confirmed COVID case. 

New Milford Superintendent Alisha DiCorpo says the number of children who have been affected by COVID-19 has risen in the community, and consequently, the number of children in quarantine has risen.  New Milford has 24 active cases in the schools, with 86 students in isolation or quarantine, according to the most recent data on the district’s website. 

New Milford health director Lisa Morrissey is “strongly recommending” students and staff quarantine for 10 days when exposed, but still allows them the option to test out on day five or later and return on day eight. 

Brookfield Superintendent John Barile says moving forward, until further notice, students considered close contacts of a COVID positive individual will return to the district quarantine protocol if they are not vaccinated.  Brookfield plans to reassess COVID metrics after the Winter Recess.