Masks Return To 4 Montclair Schools Amid ‘Uptick’ In COVID Cases

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A recent rise in coronavirus cases has been seen at four public schools in Montclair, prompting a return of face masks at each, administrators say.

Last week, Montclair School Superintendent Jonathan Ponds announced that mandatory face masks would return at Montclair High School for 10 days. All students and staff will need to wear masks during the school day from Wednesday, May 4 to Friday, May 13. If someone forgets to bring a mask, the school will supply one, Ponds said. Read More: Masks Back At Montclair High School For 10 Days Due To COVID 'Uptick'

On Friday, the superintendent noted that three other schools – Buzz Aldrin Middle School, and Hillside and Watchung Elementary Schools – have also seen upticks of COVID-19 cases.

“When that happens, the school notifies the district lead nurse who in turn consults with the Montclair Health Department, as recommended by the New Jersey Health Department latest guidelines,” he stated.

If it’s determined that a short-term mask mandate is needed, administrators then decide whether to roll out universal masking throughout the school, or whether to only require masking in affected classrooms.

Montclair High School and Buzz Aldrin Middle School had full-school, 10-day masking implemented. Meanwhile, Watchung and Hillside each had one classroom masked last week, Ponds said.

“We are hopeful that with the warmer weather on the horizon, our students, staff and families will remain healthy,” he added.

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