Some Parents Apoplectic Over Possibility Of Masks Next Year. New Policy Involves Outdoor Play This Year.
BY: STAFF REPORT | BocaNewsNow.com
BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2021 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The Palm Beach County School District officially today updated its mask policy.
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While the mask mandate remains in effect for all indoor activities, including classroom learning, there is new leniency when it comes to recess and outdoor play. The School Board is still considering mask rules for next year as some parents are apoplectic thinking that students could be required to wear masks come August. School Board members say they are aware of the concern and will soon make a decision using science — not hysteria — as a guide.
This is the official announcement, on May 7th, 2021, from the Palm Beach County School District:
“Students in grades K-12 are not required to wear facial coverings during outdoor physical education classes if maintaining social distancing of at least six feet or more is possible. By contrast, facial coverings are required when social distancing outdoors is not possible.
Additionally, the District recently expanded this guidance to include outdoor recess which includes time outside with the classroom teacher. Again, facial coverings during recess are now optional if social distancing is maintained.
While protocol concerning recess has been relaxed, it’s important to understand that facial covering rules remain in place for students inside District buildings, riding on school buses, and walking through open-air hallways during class changes.
At the elementary level, playgrounds will begin reopening for the first time this school year on Tuesday, May 11. Playtimes may be staggered to accommodate social distancing guidelines. Facial coverings will be optional for students.
Students will be advised to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before entering the playground and upon returning inside the school building.
Maintenance staff is currently cleaning and assessing playgrounds to ensure that they reopen safely on May 11.
The District is continuing to monitor health conditions and review current safety protocol for any potential changes to facial covering policies for the next school year.”
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