Dear Cle Elum-Roslyn Families,
This afternoon Governor Jay Inslee announced a change to the date of the end to the statewide mask mandate in schools. Instead of March 21st, the mandate will lift at 11:59pm on March 11th.
This means that beginning March 12th, all parents will have the option to choose whether or not their children wear masks in school buildings. The CDC’s requirement for buses was eliminated last week, though the Department of Health’s guidance will continue to require masking on buses until March 11.
The choice of whether or not to wear a mask is a very personal decision. People have different reasons for why they decide to wear a mask or not in our schools. We need to be understanding and respectful of each other as we make this transition.
Our district will not tolerate bullying of any kind for those who choose to continue wearing masks. Staff and students will have the choice to wear a mask at school, with the expectation that others’ choices will be respected.
- One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status, nor should they comment on them.
- Be respectful if anyone requests that you remain physically distanced from them. We will continue to provide physical distancing to the extent possible in our classrooms.
- For young children, please let teachers know your wishes and they will do their best to reinforce them. The schools will discuss the change with students in a developmentally appropriate manner, including how to respect everyone’s personal choice and how their choice may impact quarantine.
- If your child(ren) expresses any anxiety, feel free to reach out to our school counselors for additional support as needed.
We anticipate the release of the mask mandate will also result in changes to our COVID contact tracing and quarantine protocols. We have been told that the Department of Health will be releasing additional guidance next week. As we learn more about those changes, we will keep you informed.
Our best line of defense in limiting the spread of COVID-19 in our schools continues to be our own individual commitments to keep each other safe and healthy. If your kids are exhibiting symptoms, please keep them home. Do not send students to school when they are sick.
Again, we appreciate your commitment to our schools and your continued patience and support. We will continue communication with you as we learn about changes to the guidance for our district.
Sincerely,
Michelle Kuss-Cybula
Superintendent
Cle Elum-Roslyn School District