Dear FFCSD community,
You may be aware that New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard A. Zucker on Friday issued a letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that referred to a possible change to mask-wearing requirement for students, staff, and visitors on school property.
We received notification today, Sunday, June 6, from the NYS Education Department (NYSED) clarifying that the intent of Dr. Zucker’s letter was to obtain clarification from the CDC regarding differing standards for summer camps and schools. It has not changed any existing arrangements, and schools were directed to continue to operate under their existing procedures until further notice.
As a result, FFCSD will maintain its current Reopening Plan requirements with respect to mask wearing, which includes the requirement to wear masks while inside school buildings and on school buses. Our mask wearing protocols have always included that masks can be removed in classrooms when students and staff are six feet apart.
However, please note that in working with the Montgomery County Department of Health, we have determined that masks will NOT be required for students, staff, or visitors for any outside activities before, during, or after school, effective Monday, June 7, 2021.
We thank you for your continued cooperation and your dedication to the health and well-being of our students and staff.
Sincerely,
Thomas Ciaccio, Superintendent of Schools