The Hopkinton School Nutrition Department emailed schools families on Tuesday requesting that students pack lunches the next two weeks “due to an influx of positive COVID-19 cases among the school nutrition staff.”

There has been a surge in COVID-19 cases in town, and especially within the schools, over the past few weeks.

“We are facing staffing shortages, resulting in too few employees to properly produce and serve hot meals for our students,” the email reads. “A modified menu will be available for students. We apologize for any inconvenience but thank you in advance for your patience and understanding while we navigate these incredibly difficult times.”