Dear Staff, Students and Families,
As noted in my February 27 message, the Maine CDC has now reviewed the U.S. CDC guidance on masking in schools. The Maine Department of Education and DHHS have advised schools and child care facilities that effective March 9, 2022, universal masking is no longer a statewide recommendation in these settings but is optional. Please be aware, however, that our preschool program is operated by a Head Start agency that must continue to follow a federal mandate to mask.
I anticipate that the Board will continue to follow the guidance of the Maine CDC, acting on this updated guidance this evening. While a transition to optional masking will be welcome news for many, schools will ensure that the safety of all individuals in schools remains of the utmost importance. We recognize that the illness is still here, with Kennebec County’s positive test rate at 3.2%, and Somerset County’s rate at 10%.
We are all looking forward to turning the corner on this virus that has dominated and disrupted. We look forward to springtime, new beginnings, and schools returning to normalcy for all.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Roberta Hersom
Superintendent of Schools