We are sharing an important update with our families and staff regarding the newly released recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Governor’s Office about COVID-19 mitigation strategies for schools.

During a press conference this afternoon – Sunday, Feb. 27 – Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that the statewide mask requirement in schools will be lifted on Wednesday, March 2. This means that starting Wednesday – students, school staff and visitors will no longer be required to wear face coverings or masks in our school buildings or while riding school buses. Mask wearing will be optional. We understand that some students and staff members may choose to continue to wear masks in school after the state’s guidance takes effect Wednesday. We ask that everyone be respectful of each other’s personal decisions.

Please note that until Wednesday, March 2, the mask mandate remains in effect for students and staff in school buildings and on buses.

As always, we continue to work with our local county health officials regarding updates to COVID health and safety protocols. If any additional changes to these protocols are made, we will share that information with you.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and commitment to the health and safety of our students and staff.

(This message was shared with WCSD families and staff via One Call Now email on February 27.)