This week, we know students in Boston are once again in unchartered territory as they navigate a new school year in the midst of a pandemic. And while some are physically returning to school buildings for either part of all of the week, others are learning remotely from home or community centers. 

Here are a handful of resources to help families in these initial weeks of back to school:

Chromebooks and Connectivity

• Students who may still need a Chromebook should connect directly with their individual school to request one. 
• This BPS page is also useful if you need to report a damaged Chromebook or to watch a video on how to set-up and use the device.
• Need an internet connection? The city of Boston has this page with a handful of options. If you need further assistance, contact digital.equity@boston.gov.

Remote Learning Updates

• BPS Updates
• Private, parochial, METCO, and charter school families should check their individual school websites for all back-to-school updates and information.

Covid Testing Sites

• The city of Boston has created a map and list of all sites for coronavirus testing. Some sites require an appointment or calling in advance; all sites, along with addresses and phone numbers, are listed here.

Food Assistance

• Beginning September 30, eligible families will receive increased assistance through the Department of Transitional Assistance to cover meals that are usually provided during the school day. Families may check their eligibility or apply for benefits here.
• The BPS continues to provide packaged meals to families who need them, and other community organizations, including Project Bread, are taking part in this effort. BPS meal sites and times for pick-up are listed here. Families may also call Project Bread’s Food Source Hotline at (800) 645-8333.
• Some neighborhoods have established a “community fridge” where food is available to those who need it; information may be found here.

Flu Shots

• In August, Governor Baker mandated flu shots for all “children at least 6 months old who attend child care or preschool must be immunized” all K-12 students must receive the flu vaccine by December 31. Flu shots, which are free with most forms of insurance, are available through CVS and Walgreens. More information on state required immunizations may be found here. 

Homework Help

• No registration is required to participate in the now online Homework Assistance Program via the Boston Public Library. Information is available on this and other homework assistance programs here. 

Please let us know what additional information would be helpful by emailing us at info@schoolfactsboston.org.