'Mask Optional' In Scotch Plains Schools Starting March 7

SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD, NJ — In light of Gov. Phil Murphy's announcement on Monday to end the state mandate on mask-wearing in schools as of March 7, the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public School announced it will transition to "mask optional" on that date.

In an email to the district, Superintendent Dr. Joan Mast said the governor's announcement is "a welcome step and a sign that we are moving slowly but surely to a more normal, pre-pandemic way of life."

While mask use will be optional in the Scotch Plains Fanwood Schools as of March 7, Mast said the district may need to return to stricter mask policy if necessary.

In lifting the state’s mask requirement, Murphy cited data showing that the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have fallen dramatically in recent weeks. Murphy is leaving it up to individual districts to decide whether they will keep the mask mandate or not.

Mast said the school district's case numbers have followed state trends, which has led them to the decision to not require masks. During the week of Jan. 29 to Feb. 4, approximately 13 students and 3 staff members reported testing positive for COVID-19.

Mast added that it is important that the community supports each family's decision regarding mask wearing and that everyone has personal circumstances they are dealing with.

She said the state Department of Health will develop guidance for school districts over the next few weeks, and there could be some adjustments to the mask-wearing rules for specific populations and/or circumstances.

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Schools will work collaboratively with the Regional Health Departments for guidance.

"As always we strive to make the best decisions for everyone’s well-being and safety," Mast said. "Navigating these times has been an ongoing challenge for our school community, and we appreciate your continued support."

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