COVID-19 Protocols Update
Posted on 02/28/2022

Greeting OCSD Community,

I hope you enjoyed the mid-winter break and had smooth return to school today. I’m writing with a brief update regarding mask requirements.

Yesterday afternoon, Governor Hochul announced that the state-wide mandate for wearing masks in school will be lifted beginning Wednesday, March 2. The Governor’s announcement is based on data regarding declining positivity and hospitalization rates. However, while the school mask mandate will be lifted, counties and cities with high rates of transmission may still require masks in schools depending on local conditions. We understand that the New York State Department of Health and the State Education Department are preparing a final guidance document for schools. Pending the release of new guidance, OCSD will maintain our other Covid-19 protocols including social distancing, hand washing and sanitization.  

This guidance will include allowing parents the choice to continue to have their children wear masks while in school. OCSD will respect the choices made by our families, students, and adults to continue to wear masks in school after the mandate is lifted. I will provide another update once we receive additional information. Please be reminded that the wearing of masks in school remains in effect at least through tomorrow.

The district and schools have a remaining supply of rapid home tests for any student, community or staff member who may request one. Thank you for your patience as we strive to support all OCSD students and maintain as safe a learning environment as possible.

 

Matthew T. Carpenter
Superintendent of Schools