Statement on the Puerto Rico State of Emergency
NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Puerto Rico was recently hit by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake, displacing thousands of residents; subsequently, many are without power and access to water. In the wake of the state of emergency in Puerto Rico, Mayor Justin M. Elicker and New Haven Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Ilene Tracey, released the following joint statement:
“The City of New Haven and New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) are prepared to receive residents and students from Puerto Rico in the wake of this most recent disaster–including those unaccompanied by a parent or guardian–and provide them with supplies, clothing, and transportation. Students will be assessed for bilingual education and special needs and will be placed in the appropriate classrooms. Resources to support all students and families received during this disaster will be covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The NHPS Youth, Family, and Community Engagement Department will be coordinating communications and will be a resource to students and families if they arrive in the school system.
We stand with Puerto Rico, and our hearts go out to all those affected by this disaster. The Elm City is ready to accommodate those seeking refuge in this perilous time.”
NHPS is offering services to existing students and incoming students affected by the earthquakes and can be coordinated through Daniel Diaz by calling (475) 220-1063.
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