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February 16, 2022
Dear Hastings Families and Staff,
I am writing regarding mask requirements in the Hastings-on-Hudson Union Free School District. As a reminder, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on February 9 that, after the Mid-Winter School Break, she would reevaluate the mask mandate for public schools in New York State.
In anticipation of a decision by Governor Hochul within the next two weeks, I want to announce the plans for the Hastings schools. The following plans are based on a careful review of data and information on vaccination and COVID-19 rates in our school community, consultation with our Medical Directors, and a review of likely steps in neighboring school districts.
What will occur if the NYS Mask Mandate is lifted?
If Governor Hochul lifts the mask mandate, Hastings will shift within several days of the announcement to masks being optional for students and staff. When the decision is known, we will immediately set a date certain for shifting to optional mask-use. We will require several days to assess the specific decision by the Governor and its implications for related mitigation strategies.
Hastings is able to shift to optional mask-use given our high rates of vaccination among students and staff, coupled with our low rates of COVID-19 infection.
● As of February 15, 87% of students K-12 have received at least two doses (Hillside, 81%; FMS, 87%; HHS, 94%) and 73% are fully vaccinated (Hillside, 81%; FMS, 74%; HHS, 65%). Vaccination rates for our staff are at least 95%.
● Over the past two weeks, our daily COVID-19 infection rates have been in the low single digits, and several times at zero.
How will lifting the mask mandate affect other COVID-19 protocols?
We have not received guidance from the State or Westchester County Department of Health on how a change in mask requirements would affect regulations and guidelines for physical distancing and quarantines. This is one reason for the several-day “grace period” between the Governor’s announcement regarding masks and the implementation date in Hastings. Changes in mask requirements, without modifications in physical distancing and quarantine requirements, may affect how we handle students or staff deemed to have been in close contact with a confirmed positive COVID-19 case. Once any ancillary effects to protocols are understood, we will inform families and staff. Unchanged will be the Surveillance Testing and Test-to-Stay programs.
What can we do between now and the time that masks are no longer mandatory?
Our administration, faculty, and staff have begun to plan. We also encourage families to take time to talk with their children in advance of any change to the mandate. There will be an adjustment period for all of us, and students need to be prepared to have classmates who make different choices. We will emphasize tolerance of choices among all members of our community. We are committed to fostering an environment where students feel respected, and we will provide support to all students as they navigate change. Please reach out to your building administrator with any specific issues that arise.
What if conditions change necessitating a local mask mandate in Hastings?
If COVID-19 rates revert to levels of concern in our schools, and public health and medical experts advise a return to mandated mask-use, I would consult with the Board of Education on the next step. We are not contemplating such a step, but we want families and staff aware of the process if necessary for public health and medical reasons.
Final Word: Focus on our Success
Hastings students and staff have been a national model this year for how to be constructive, productive, and widely supportive of each other in addressing COVID-19. We have effectively maximized our health and maintained in-person schooling all year. We have done so with respect and dignity for every student and staff member. As we shift into a new phase of dealing with COVID-19, we must continue our signature: respecting different views and approaches.
I will send a notice to families and staff promptly once I have formally heard the decision by Governor Hochul regarding the mask mandate. With that notice, we will set a date certain for the shift to optional use of masks in the Hastings public schools. Until then, please understand that masks must be worn at all times inside our schools and facilities.
Be well.
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