Catholic academies and parochial schools in the diocese of Brooklyn, which includes Queens, will make face coverings optional for school staff and all students starting Wednesday instead of mandatory. The change comes in response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement that the mask mandate in New York State schools would be lifted effective March 2.
However, New York City funded Pre-K-3 and Pre-K-4 (UPK) programs must continue to wear masks as required by the New York City Department of Education.
“We respect all faculty, staff, and parents who have differing opinions, and we understand the concern on both sides of the issue. No person, faculty, staff, or student will be discouraged from wearing a face covering at school and face coverings will continue to be a recommended mitigation strategy,” says a letter from diocesan school officials sent to parents.
Other preventive strategies that will continue include:
- Talk to your health care provider about vaccination
- Staying home when sick and getting tested
- physical distancing
- Ventilation
- Hand washing and respiratory etiquette
- Isolation and quarantine protocols in combination with the cleaning and disinfection strategy
–
