This afternoon, Dr. Mark Ghaly of the California Health and Human Services Agency hosted a press briefing on COVID-19. In addition to providing an overview of COVID-19 case rates and discussing the mask mandate for general public settings, which sunsets tomorrow, Dr. Ghaly also presented on the future of school masking.

While Dr. Ghaly’s slides included that “based on our data, it is reasonable that we’re getting close to a point where state masking requirements can be relaxed,” there is no change to the state’s school masking requirement at this time. However, the state will reassess the data and conditions (factors such as case rate, test positivity, hospitalizations, and vaccine rates) and on Feb. 28 may announce a date when the mask requirement will move to a strong recommendation.

According to Dr. Ghaly, no specific thresholds or targets have been established for relaxing the mandate. Acknowledging the frustration of some parents and the fears of others, Dr. Ghaly noted that local public health and educational agencies have the ability to implement more restrictive policies if they so choose. Dr. Ghaly offered that the next two weeks are a chance for school communities to prepare for changes in future guidance, “so when the decision is made at the state level, people will be well prepared.” As a result, we expect that superintendents and school leaders will hear from students, families, employees, and community members advocating for a particular position around face covering requirements over the next two weeks and through the state's Feb. 28 announcement.

This is a fluid situation that continues to evolve. We will share additional information and resources as they become available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need additional assistance in the meantime.

Sincerely,

Paul

Dr. Paul Gothold

San Diego County Superintendent of Schools

email: paul.gothold@sdcoe.net