Mr. Hernandez,

We have sent several emails but have yet to receive a response to date.  As a parent and tax payer of Branford, myself, along with other concerned parents are requesting a school reopening plan.  We are aware of the 6 feet of distance issue BUT as the CDC states, this is not a requirement to open schools (see below).  We are also aware that the East Shore district is consulted on reopening and question how our neighboring towns were able to accomplish reopening but Branford has yet to even have a plan. 

Many concerned parents attended the board meeting on 2/17 to only walk away more frustrated and saddened by Branford’s lack of response.  The refusal of questions posed by parents and the lack of access to even get in to the committee meeting was concerning.  Parents want to know how it is that Project Choice and Tier 3 Children are allowed in Branford schools 4 days a week but yet our own children are not.  As tax payers of Branford, parents deserve a answer why a child from New Haven who does not pay taxes can get a Branford education but our own children who live within the town lines are banned from doing so.  We feel this is discrimination against us as tax payers and our children’s education.

As we are all aware, the one we are failing here is our children and their education.  The social and emotional toll this has taken is devastating.  

Of course our first priority is everyone’s safety, but if we follow the science as we are told to do, Branford schools should be opened for 5 days a week.  There needs to be a level of transparency between the BOE and the parents of this town.  We are requesting what should already be set in motion.  A clear plan to reopen Branford.   

Best,

BPS  - Group for Parents & Taxpayers pushing for reopening 5 days